The girls’ basketball team is entering this season with something rare. They have a roster dominated by underclassmen, only one senior, and a new coach. With so many girls stepping into a varsity role, the Pioneers are treating this winter as both a fresh start and an opportunity to grow. 

“Varsity is a lot more intense,” Liv Burgess ‘27 said, “everyone wants to be there.” 

With a new roster and a new coach, the team is also adjusting to new leadership from coach Richard Parrot. 

“She has good knowledge and will help us a lot,” Burgess said, “She is really good at making sure that everyone is doing what they are supposed to be doing and pushing us.” 

Sienna Gills ‘26 is the only senior on the team this season. Despite this, she is embracing the challenge so far, especially as a captain. 

“I think it’s tough,” Gills said, “but a lot of the juniors have also taken on a lot of the responsibility with helping the underclassmen be better.” 

Gill’s leadership has become a foundation for the younger players adjusting to the pace and pressure of varsity basketball. As the season has progressed, she has been able to watch the team work together, 

“We have been working on some pretty basic stuff with our offense and our defense,” Gills said, “the underclassmen have been picking it up pretty well.” 

Motivated through the relationships that she’s built over the years, Gills hopes to make a lasting impact on the team.

“I hope to demonstrate encouragement to the team,” Gills said, “just moving onto the next play and forgetting about the next one.” 

Alongside her leadership stands the guard Jane Weaver ‘27, one of the team’s top scorers and most experienced players. Weaver has naturally stepped into her role on the court. 

“I always try to support my team and do whatever I can to help the team win,” Weaver said,” I always try to make my teammates look good.” 

With such a small roster this season, the chemistry has come along easily for the team. 

“We were automatically really close,” Weaver said, “it doesn’t feel forced to be friends with anyone.” 

Weaver believes that their athleticism will allow them to stand out in their conference, especially with big games later on in the season. 

“My favorite part about basketball is the team environment and how everyone really supports each other,” Ella Swayman ‘27 said. 

As the team continues to grow together, their connection off the court will help carry them through some tough matchups. 

“I am most excited for a few of our big games against Catholic Central and Forest Hills Northern,” Ellla Swayman ‘27 said, “I am excited to see how we hold up against them and if we can pull out an upset.” 

With a lot of games coming up in January, the Pioneers are hoping that their chemistry, athleticism, and new leadership will set the tone for a positive season.