South Eugene winter sports are full-steam ahead, and that includes our girls’ basketball team. This year’s  new coaching staff has resulted in strong improvements and big adjustments for the program. 

“I love the coaches,” junior Mia Francis said. “They help us isolate our problems and eliminate them.” 

Winning and losing weren’t all that defined basketball; what was truly important for athletes dedicated to the sport was making improvements and increasing their individual abilities. 

“The coaches have added an intense two-and-a-half hour workout schedule and a lot of practices over break,” junior and varsity player Aven Darnell Nelson said. “I’ve gained so many skills this year that I’m so proud of. For a young team we are doing really well. We only have two seniors playing varsity.”

Practices and improvements weren’t the only things the team had going for them. 

“The team is like a family,” junior Addy Wallin said. “I love the team. I’ve made so many new friends.” 

As for audience attendance at games, things weren’t as positive. 

“No one shows up to games,” junior and varsity player Cailyn Gabbard shared. “It kind of  takes a hit on our team morale. But we still always play our best. It’s about the game, not the people watching.” Showing up to support peers is important for creating an energized community at South, so make some time to check out South girls’ basketball before the season is over!

Article by Ozy Zinke-Haschemeyer