Women's Basketball Success
Over the past 20 years, it’s been awhile since the Watauga High School women’s basketball team has had a showstopping record, but the 2016-2017 season was the exception to this dry spell. With an overall record of 19-9 and a conference record of 11-3, making the Lady Pioneers conference champions for the first time in over a decade. The conference win was a huge excitement for the team and the school.
This season’s successes aren’t all credited by luck or a single star player, but by a true display of teamwork throughout the season among the players. Not only has the skillset among these players helped them advance to such a spot, but the leadership of new coach, Laura Barry has also played a major role in the team’s success. The team is diverse mix of ages, with starters ranging from freshmen to seniors.
One of the most exciting wins of the season was against the Pioneers’ biggest conference rivals, Hickory High School, whom we have lost to for the past 15 years. This game created momentum for the Pioneers to advance to the next round of the state playoffs, another victory for the team, and the school as a whole. When asked about the Pioneers’ victory over the Hickory Tornadoes, Senior, Katherine said “It was our most exciting win all season”, and the students would have to agree. After interviewing multiple avid members of the student section, they collectively agreed that it was a great send off for the Pioneers as they played two more games in the playoffs.
This season was a great reflection of the team’s hard work and passion for the sport, and gives an optimistic outlook on the upcoming season. With the already established momentum, both the students and athletes are looking forward to what next year my bring.
