Kaneland determined to improve
The saying goes that the best thing about freshmen is they become sophomores.
That same theory applies for Kaneland girls basketball coach Ernie Colombe. He didn’t play a lot of freshmen last year in the Knights’ 5-23 season, but he had an inexperienced group with only one senior. Kaneland went into game after game against teams relying on seniors and juniors.
This year Colombe hopes all the experience his juniors and sophomores got last season pays off as Kaneland begins life in the Northern Illinois Big 12 Conference.
“The young players we had up last season have matured and are a lot more confident on the court,” Colombe said. “We feel like we will be a competitive team every night.”
With almost every regular back, Kaneland has plenty of players who can make an impact. It starts in the backcourt with seniors Emily Heimerdinger and Andie Strang.
The Knights also have size inside with 6-foot-1 junior center Kelly Evers.
“The players in our program have really worked hard in the summer and fall to prepare for this season,” Colombe said. “We feel like we have improved across the board in all areas.”
Other returnees who figure to see a lot of playing time include junior guard Tesa Alderman, junior forward Nicki Ott, junior guard McKinzie Mangers, junior forward Emma Bradford and senior forward Trinae Coachman.
“Our strength is we have a lot of versatile players who have improved their skill sets,” Colombe said. “We have more size and more speed this year and the girls are excited for the season.”
One newcomer who will give Kaneland more size is 6-2 junior center Cori Flowers. She’s part of a group of younger players who should help the program improve not just this year but future seasons.
“Our lower levels have a lot of talent as well,” Colombe said. “Early on we have been working on setting the tone for the season by emphasizing our team defense and rebounding.”
Quick facts
Coach: Ernie Colombe
Last year: 5-23, lost 63-35 to Rochelle in Class 3A Rochelle regional opener.
Players to watch: Emily Heimerdinger, sr., G; Andie Strang, sr., G; Kelly Evers, jr., C