Scouting St. Viator girls basketball

St. Viator

Coach: Paul Bjerkness (fourth season)

Last year’s record: 21-11, 5-5

Graduated players: Susan Hohenadel (Rockhurst), Mary Calov (Benedictine), Ronnie Mack, Meghan McGrath, Meghan Malone, Bridget Urbanus, Eileen Mazanek.

Returning players: Taylor Skala (5-9 Sr. G), Emily Leazer (5-11 Sr. F), Julia Frank (5-7 Sr. F), Megan Bailey (5-7 Sr. G), Tracy Supergan (5-9 Sr. C), Maggie Dougherty (5-10 Sr. F), Kim McAvoy (5-8 Sr. F), Martha McAvoy (5-8 Sr. F), Diana VanStedum (5-9 Sr. C).

Newcomers: Mallory Hess (5-8 Jr. F), Morgan Hess (5-8 Jr. F), Lauren Rooney (6-1 Jr. C), Katie Calmeyn (5-6 Jr. G), Katie Gavin (5-7 Jr. G), Olivia Nuelle (5-10 Jr. F).

Outlook: Coming off the second regional title in school history (3A) and a 21-win season, the Lions will have a new look after graduating seven key seniors and four starters. “We are excited about the upcoming season because we have a great group of girls,” Bjerkness said. “Our hope is based on a summer that was extremely competitive and productive.” Skala, who has verbally committed to Rockhurst, returns as point guard. Of the returning players, Skala was the leader in points, rebounds, steals and assists. Volleyball standout Leazer is the second-leading rebounder among the returners. “We believe that we will have a solid defensive team and a well-balanced attack on the offensive end of the floor,” Bjerkness said. “There will be a period of adjustment early in the season with a lot of girls competing for playing time. We have no doubt that this year’s team is focused and ready for the challenge.”