Charles Prince

The North Jefferson News



The 2006-07 Gardendale Lady Rockets were in first place in the area standings with one game left to play, but then two key players went down with ankle injuries and the season ended on a sour note.

This season, three starters return and two experienced reserves are also back, but head coach Tom Hannah isn’t taking any chances with his club’s health. He’s ordered 30 pairs of ankle braces in hopes of avoiding any injuries this winter.

The Lady Rockets (12-16) finished second to Erwin in the 5A, Area 10 during the regular season last spring.

According to Hannah, this year’s club can challenge for a spot in the sub-state playoffs, due in part to outstanding team chemistry.

“We’re going to be pretty good,” he said. “We’re going to be better than last year. These girls get along good and they have more fun together than any team I’ve ever had.”

Hannah welcomes back last year’s leading scoring Kristian Moody, who scored over 15 points per contest in 2006-07. Moody will play at point guard.

“We’re going to rely on Kristian for leadership and points this season,” Hannah said. “But this year, I think she’ll have more help. I’m expecting us to be a pretty good shooting team. We should be able to put points up.”

Other starters returning, include power forward Taylor Powell and shooting guard Alison McCaleb.

Also back are Elizabeth Schultz and Sidney Long on the wings. Both girls came off the bench last season to play key minutes.

Kenoasha Carter, a transfer from Tarrant High School, will likely start at center.

Other players on this year’s roster are junior shooting guard Lauren Davis and three freshman, Taylor Lindsey at power forward, Rebekah Myers at center and Kaitlyn Plan at point guard.

“We don’t have any superstars on this club, but we’ve got several girls who are good solid players,” Hannah said. “This group of girls is willing to work hard at getting better.”

Hannah plans on pressing, trapping and running at every opportunity this year.

“Running the floor will be key for us,” Hannah said. “If our shooting and experience come through for us, we should have a good year.”