The Amherst girls basketball team opened regional play by first claiming the #2 seed and then defeating the Menominee Indians in the regional opener.

The Falcons advanced to play Xavier High School on Saturday, February 26.  They sadly took a devastating 50-52 loss after a 15+ point comeback.

“I think the biggest challenge this team has gone through is having a drastic change in coaching style and play,” said Scout Spadoni, a sophomore on the team when asked what the biggest challenge this season. “The way we were coached last year and this year were very different, it took a while to get used to Brandon and Claire with the way they play.”  Although the coaching was different, the girls continued to show up six days a week, Sunday through Monday. This coming after long summer workouts.

The team consisted of six seniors: Nicki Eiden, Sydney Jastromski, Lauren Bird, Alexa Shulfer, Sydney Lehman, and Hannah Wall.  These girls continue to be leaders on and off the court.  “My favorite memory from this season was when Sydney and I dressed up as coach Claire for a week.  We had long baggy shorts, high ponytails, pulled-up cocks, and even a headband,” said Scout.  “We had a lot of up and downs but always came back as a team.”

“The season was fun, even while on JV,” said Hailie Portmann.  “Everyone always worked to pick each other up no matter what; I’m excited to see how we will be next season.” Following the girls state tournament, it’s back to early mornings in the weight room, and hot off-season practices in the summer. 

“My advice to younger players is to give it all you got because you never know who is there watching you play the game you love, you never know when it will be your last,” said scout.  “Keep working to achieve your goals even when you think it’s not paying off, hard work beats talent.”