It has been 538 days since The Calvary University Lady Warriors basketball team has hit the hardwood for some basketball action, but now they are back and looking forward to an exciting new season.
This year’s squad will look quite similar to the team from two seasons ago, and rightfully so. There are four returners from that team including Juniors Paige Specht, Tasha Krahn, and CJ Lewallen; and senior Ashley Spicer. Also, former assistant coach Tressa Shoemaker, is now at the head coaching position.
“I have 2 returning guards, Ashley Spicer, and CJ Lewallen, who are quick and strong defensively” said Coach Shoemaker. “My new additions to guard play are Lydia Sharplin and Rilee Walquist who will add good ball handling and strong offensive elements to the program. I will have two utility guard/forwards, Paige Specht and Alyssa Splitter both returning dual athletes who will provide both the offensive rhythm that we need as well as strong communication on defense. I have a transfer post, Rachelle Deaver who will be an unstoppable force down below. Tasha Krahn and Shelby Young are two additional posts who will add good height and strength below and will surprise some teams with their ability to bring down strong rebounds and put backs. All of these girls are fighters and competitors who are focused and ready for challenges”
Accompanying Coach Shoemaker will be Assistant coaches Kay Krahn who has been with the Lady Warriors now for 3 seasons, and Cameron VandeVelde who will be joining the coaching staff for the first time this season.
The Lady Warriors will play 9 of their 15 regular season games at home this season with their first matchup at the Pyramid Athletic Center on Monday, November 21 against Central Christian College of the Bible. They will play two non-conference opponents in Kansas Christian College and Rhema Bible College this season, along with their regular MCCC conference schedule.
Despite the challenges that accompany a rebuilding season, Coach Shoemaker is excited for the opportunities. “Since Calvary didn’t have a team last year, we have a lot of work to do in order to catch up. However, in my experience it is fun to be the underdog who gets to chase their opponents. We will not give up and we will not let down because we will fight through our adversity.”
“I am looking forward to developing and challenging my athletes to be as successful as they can be in basketball this season. I am excited to pursue excellence with our athletes in character, in the classroom, and on the court. It will be a rebuilding year for us, and I can’t wait to see how this team will grow in their unity with each other on and off the court.”