The way Jay Hatch sees it, the Alleman girls' basketball team has two choices when it comes to handling the potential season-ending knee injuries to senior forward Zoe Kelso and junior guard Cierra Davis.
"We can sit and feel sorry for ourselves or we can go out and play," said Hatch, the Alleman coach. "We better get after it."
Replacing Kelso and Davis — who scored 46 percent of Alleman's points last season and both tore anterior cruciate ligaments in their knees during the offseason — already is a daunting task for a team that graduated eight seniors.
At best, those two could return late in the season. In reality, the Pioneers will play the season without either.
"We're going to have to be ready," Hatch said. "We're going to have to do that with the reality we have."
Still, there are pieces and experience that keep the Pioneers excited for this season. In fact, Alleman has adjusted to life without its two leading scorers.
-What do you like about this team?
"They've been working hard in practice. We had a good summer. We don't have a ton of numbers this year, which is unusual. Kids are playing multiple spots. The positive is that there are a lot more reps in practice for the kids. That's been encouraging."
-Who will play shooting guard in lieu of Davis?
"We're still figuring that out. Our guards who are returning are Anna Wetherell and Anne Bohnert. Toward the end of the year, Abbey Johnson was working her way in. Karli Anderson and Dominique Davis and Isabelle Anderson and Raven Wyatt are newcomers."
—Will that be a position by committee?
"We've kind of always done that. Everybody's going to get a chance. That's how we go after it."
—How will your post presence be?
"We've got four kids in there. Erin Morrisey, Maddie McGuire, Daria Guzzo and Anne Bohnert will play post. Those are the four at that spot."
—Has your team had to alter its goals?
"I hope not. We haven't really had a goal-setting session yet, but I hope they didn't (alter their goals). If we did that, we're feeling sorry for ourselves. We're going to show up and play and do the best we can. We've got some skills."
—Can you contend in the Western Big 6 Conference?
"I hope so. You never know how the conference will turn out. There are always things that are unexpected. Our kids have played against all these kids for a long time. It's a matter of putting it together and playing how we want to play. That's easy to say."
—How will this team handle being in Class 3A?
"That remains to be seen. We haven't talked about it at all. I don't even know if our team knows. It's not a focus right now. It's not like football — we don't have to qualify. It's not like we don't play 3A teams — we play plenty of them."
—What are the expectations?
"I know the coaching staff's goals haven't changed. I don't see any point in going to play if you don't think you have a chance. That's what competition is all about."
A look at the Pioneers
— Coach: Jay Hatch (20th season, 409-215)
— Last season: 17-14, 5-5 Western Big 6; lost to Riverdale, 50-45, in Class 2A regional semifinal
— Returning letterwinners: Srs.: Anne Bohnert (5-10, G/F), Abbey Johnson (5-4, G), Maddie McGuire (5-9, F), Zoe Kelso (6-0, F); Jrs.: Cierra Davis (5-7, G), Anna Wetherell (5-5, G)
— Newcomers: Jrs.: Dominique Davis (5-6, G), Karli Anderson (5-4, G), Billie Franks (5-6, G), Erin Morrisey (5-11, F); Sophs.: Isabelle Anderson (5-7, G), Daria Guzzo (5-10, F), Raven Wyatt (5-5, G)
— Schedule (All games 7, unless tournament or where noted): Nov. 13, 16, 17, 24 at Galesburg Thanksgiving Tournament; Nov. 20 at Rock Island; Nov. 29 at Moline; Dec. 1 Rock Falls, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 3 Sherrard, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 6 United Township; Dec. 8 at Galesburg Winter Classic; Dec. 10 at Riverdale, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 13 at Quincy; Dec. 15 at Ridgewood, 1:30 p.m.; Dec. 26-29 at State Farm Holiday Classic; Jan. 3 at Galesburg; Jan. 5 at Iowa-Illinois Shootout; Jan. 10 Rock Island; Jan. 12, 19, 21 at Galesburg Winter Classic; Jan. 17 Moline; Jan. 24 at United Township; Jan. 29 Rockridge, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 31 Quincy; Feb. 7 Galesburg
Argus Preview: Alleman – Unveiling the Anticipation and Strategy
As the excitement for the upcoming high school sports season builds, the Argus' preview of Alleman provides a tantalizing glimpse into what the team has in store. In this article, we delve into the significance of the Argus' preview of Alleman, exploring its role in generating enthusiasm, dissecting strategic insights, and fostering community engagement. Additionally, we address frequently asked questions to offer a comprehensive understanding of the impact that this preview holds for players, fans, and the broader sports community.
Stirring Up Enthusiasm
1. Igniting Anticipation
The Argus' preview of Alleman ignites anticipation and excitement among fans and players alike. It serves as a catalyst that fuels the eagerness for the upcoming sports season and all the riveting moments it promises to bring.
2. Providing a Glimpse
For fans, the preview provides a sneak peek into what they can expect from Alleman in the upcoming season. It sparks discussions, debates, and predictions as supporters eagerly analyze the team's potential.
3. Energizing Players
For players, the preview becomes a source of motivation. The recognition and analysis of their team's strategies and strengths serve as a reminder of the hard work they've put in during training.
Analyzing the Components of the Preview
1. Tactical Insights
The Argus' preview delves into the strategic insights of Alleman. From game plans to player dynamics, readers gain valuable information about how the team aims to tackle opponents and leverage its strengths.
2. Spotlight on Key Players
The preview shines a spotlight on key players who are expected to make a significant impact on the team's performance. It offers readers a deeper understanding of these players' strengths, skills, and contributions.
3. Predictions for the Season
The Argus' preview may also include season predictions, giving readers a taste of what the team's journey might entail. This element adds an element of anticipation and excitement to the mix.
Frequently Asked Questions: Understanding the Argus' Alleman Preview
Q1: What is the Argus' preview of Alleman?
The Argus' preview of Alleman is an in-depth analysis and overview of Alleman High School's upcoming sports season. It includes strategic insights, player focus, and predictions for the season.
Q2: How does the preview generate enthusiasm?
The preview generates enthusiasm by offering readers a peek into Alleman's strategies, key players, and potential achievements. It sets the stage for an exciting and engaging season ahead.
Q3: How does the preview benefit players?
The preview boosts player motivation by acknowledging their efforts and recognizing their team's strategies and strengths. It provides an external validation of their hard work.
Q4: How does the preview foster fan engagement?
The preview sparks conversations among fans, encouraging them to share their opinions, predictions, and insights about Alleman's upcoming performance.
Q5: Why are season predictions significant?
Season predictions create an element of suspense and intrigue. They give readers something to look forward to and discuss as they follow the team's journey throughout the season.
Anticipating Excellence: Argus' Look into Alleman
The Argus' preview of Alleman encapsulates the excitement and potential that come with the start of a new sports season. As players gear up to showcase their skills and fans eagerly anticipate the thrilling moments ahead, this preview serves as a focal point that brings players, supporters, and enthusiasts together. Through its analysis, profiles, and predictions, the Argus' Alleman preview sets the stage for a season filled with camaraderie, triumphs, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field.
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