Shamrock girls have lofty goals

After biting their nails for 2 months, the Lady Shamrocks finally have the green light to play basketball. After a disappointing finish to Fowler in the playoffs last year, the St. Patrick's girls think that they can play with anyone and look forward to a competitive league this year.

The roster is not very large, but it is loaded with talent and includes Seniors- Sophie White, Avery Zimmerman, and Emma Scheurer. Juniors are Carly Scheurer, Tessa Lawson, Jaime Lynn Forist, Lydia Meredith, Kaitlyn Russell, Mara Schrauben. Sophomore Natalie Teachworth. Freshmen Laynie Meredith, Addie Scheurer and Rylee Scheurer will also dress with the varsity due and likely play. The MHSAA has expanded the playing rules this year. Every player may play 5 quarters in a game. This will allow teams to fill out the rosters for varsity and JV teams and allow for more games. The MHSAA has also allowed the teams to play 3 games a week instead of the normal 2 games per week. This would allow the teams to complete 18 games total.

Veteran Coach Al Schrauben is excited about being able to play. "We are bringing back 4 starters that all played tons of minutes." When asked about prospective starters Coach Schrauben responded, "I think any of the girls could start at some time, and I am very comfortable with any of them. Our season prospects are good. We should be competitive in any game we play. We have three juniors who are third year starters. We return our post player, our point guard and our best outside shooter. If I don't mess things up, we should be alright." Coach Schrauben, who is always guarded with his assertions, made his final comments as "The girls and I are really looking forward to playing, we hope to finish the season without any other delays." Senior Avery Zimmerman was happy to be playing, "I'm excited that this season is finally starting and grateful to be able to play my senior year. I'm really looking forward to a fun and successful season with this team." Returning third year starter, all-CMAC and All State Honorable Mention Lydia Meredith was very excited about being able to play. "I'm just excited that we have the opportunity to play and can't wait to see the work that we have put in over the last few months pay off. We are all hoping for a good run in the tournament, and God willing, a State Title."

The prospective schedule is very fluid at this point, but this is the TENTATIVE schedule. The girls may also play on Saturdays as well. Check the St. Patrick website frequently for updates.

Tuesday, February 9th. Laingsburg AWAY

Thursday, February 11th, Dansville HOME Tuesday, February 16th, Bath AWAY

Thursday, February 18th, Potterville HOME Tuesday, February 23rd, Fulton AWAY

Thursday, February 25th- OPEN

Tuesday, March 2nd- Laingsburg HOME

Thursday, March 4th, Fulton HOME Friday, March 5th, Morrice AWAY

Tuesday, March 9th, Saranac AWAY

Thursday, March 11th, P-W HOME Tuesday, March 16th, Fowler AWAY

Courtesy Photo: Senior Avery Zimmerman