With the new basketball season just around the corner, the Mustangs are preparing to take the court with something special: chemistry, heart and a shared determination to make this year one to remember.
Kory Heffentrager, head women’s basketball coach, says the current team stands out not just for their skill, but for their bond.
“I can honestly say this is one of the closest-knit teams I have ever seen,” Heffentrager said. “Everyone gets along well both on and off the floor, and it’s so exciting to see. Every player is unselfish and willing to play whatever role they need to in order for the team to be successful. They genuinely have the ‘team before me’ mentality.”
This season, leadership will come from junior Raigan Head and senior Aliya Grotjohn, captains and players who have already set the tone for the rest of the team.
“Aliya is our only senior, and she’s currently hurt right now, but that hasn’t stopped her from being a sideline leader,” Heffentrager said. “Raigan is a junior who leads by example on the floor for us. Both of these captains are very serious about their role and want to see us have a successful season. They take on a heavy load and never complain, which is honestly a coach’s dream.”
Freshman point guard Emma Welch is also eager to make her mark.
“To get off the bench, Coach Heff [has] made us run a lot – ran 65 down and backs in one practice,” Welch says.
When it comes to team goals, Heffentrager says the focus has been clear from day one.
“Our biggest emphasis has been our defense,” Heffentrager explained. “I think our players know how to score, but we’ve set a goal to become a better defensive team. We are working on our defensive IQ every single day in practice.”
Heffentrager also highlighted what makes this year’s team different from past seasons.
“I have never seen a team love each other the way this team does,” Heffentrager said. “They have the mindset that every single practice is important. They want to be successful no matter the cost, and they are willing to put in the work.”
As the season approaches, fans are ready to bring the energy. Freshman Allison Lorenz shared how she plans to show her Mustang pride on game day: “Wear my CBC apparel and be loud and proud to be a Mustang.”
Team members and coaches are feeling the fans’ support.
“First and foremost, we LOVE our fans and appreciate every single person who supports us!” Heffentrager said. “We hope we can put on a show for you guys and make you proud this season!”
The season tips off Oct. 23 with their first home game, and if the energy and unity around this team are any indication, it’s shaping up to be an exciting year for Mustang basketball.
Check out our recent stories!
Real Talk With Tay: Where Has Our School Spirit Gone?
From the Sidelines by Carlos Chicas: CBC Soccer
Nadiyah’s Notebook: The Perfect Day
Real Talk With Tay: Biblical Figures, But Make it CBC Majors
