Don’t Call it a Comeback

PHOTO | Callie Cameron

Juniors Gabby Gaither and Olivia Shively high five before the game. Varsity won 47-13 against Metro Academy Feb. 12.

Only a week ago the team lost to Blue Valley Southwest High School 67-55. This big win against Metro Academy marks the team’s effectivity in the changes they established following last week’s 12 point loss. Going into the dance team’s halftime performance, Varsity led 21-4. 

“I was really nervous to get in, but once I got in it was a lot of fun,” sophomore Lauren Ellwanger said. “I played as hard as I could.”

The team’s new motto, “Build,” stands for belief, unity, integrity, leadership and determination. Since the beginning of the season, the team has worked on building on these skills alongside their teamwork and relationships. For senior Rose Orrick, developing these relationships have been essential as she joins the team after a two-year hiatus. 

“I really have enjoyed playing with our team the most. Since I didn’t play the past two years, I hadn’t known a lot of the team super well,” Orrick said. “I’m just so happy that I get to play alongside them, they are so supportive and fun to be around. Over these last few games, I feel like we have really come together and have been playing more as a team, so that was the best part of last night.” 

Entering into the third quarter the team held up their momentum. Senior Nia Austin drove the lane several times, Karlin hit a three and Orrick put up another four points after having slight difficulty in the first and second quarters.  

“I was angry with myself in the first half because I was having trouble controlling the ball, but I was proud of how I contributed on defense and in the second half,” Orrick said. “I think I improved on offense.”