Schaumburg Christian looks forward to challenge

INDEPENDENTSchaumburg Christian Coach: Wes Dixon (first season)

Last year's record: 21-2

Returning players: Christianne Lewis (5-2 Sr. F), Ariel Imel (5-2 Jr. G), Ariona Imel (5-7 Jr. F), Caroline Cudal (5-4 Jr. G), Caitlin Thomas (6-0 So. G), Veronica Woods (5-2 So. G)

Newcomers: Beka Liu (5-3 So. G), Sara Amare (5-3 Fr. G), Caitlyn Benson (5-8 Fr. G), Cassie Hendry (5-2 Fr. G), Lauren Onnezi (5-2 Fr. G), Faith Rahn (5-9 Fr. F), Megan Talcott (5-5 Fr. F), Nicole Toth (5-6 Fr. F).

Outlook: Schaumburg Christian first-year coach Wes Dixon begins with a young team and one returning starter. With limited height, Dixon's girls will need to rely on team speed, pressure defense and running the floor. Woods and Imel will bring the pressure defensively on the guards. Four of the freshmen had great success in eighth grade while competing in a tough conference. Toth and Benson should be leaders from the freshman class. This is the first full season for Schaumburg Christian as members of the IHSA. It may bring challenges, but Dixon is looking for steady improvement and learning from his young team throughout the season. He also said the main focus will be for his players to gain confidence in themselves, in their teammates and in their coaches. It should be an exciting season as the team continues to gain experience and confidence.