2002-2003 Varsity Team

VARSITY TEAM PREVIEW

This year's Varsity team at Elk Grove has many new faces. Only four players remain from last year's 17-12 Delta League runner-up team. Seniors Kristin O'Rourke, Stephanie Lopez, and Vanessa Irving and Sophomore Jennifer Enos return with O'Rourke and Lopez as the only returning starters. O'Rourke and Irving give Elk Grove a potent one-two inside punch that can score from the high post and the low block. Lopez is one of the most gifted athletes at Elk Grove High School. Her floor play and defensive abilities are second to none. Enos is a super point guard who will look to chase the Lady Herd's all-time leading scorer Amanda Fitzgerald's records.

Many observers would declare this year to be a rebuilding year with so many new players. However, Coach Brian Benson prefers the term "reloading." Reloading is a more appropriate term to describe the talent joining the 2002-03 Varsity Team. Joining the four returners are sophomores Ashley Gaskin, Lidiya Kosachevich, and Rebekah Focht. Along with Enos, the "Fab Four" display an abundance of talent, athleticism, and offensive firepower. Going a year younger is Freshman Shanice Brown, a 6'3 center with soft hands and strong low post moves.

This year isn't just a youth movement for the Lady Herd. Junior Rebecca Bautista joins the team as a scrappy, heady player that can run both guard spots, defend, and score. Depth is no problem with Juniors Katie Fairbairn and Bailey Hedman at guard and Juniors Heather Gale and Alaina Wagemann in the post. All five of the juniors can thrive in the Lady Herd's up-tempo attack.

Coach Benson looks upon this season with excitement and optimism. Never before has he had a team that is so versatile. Their quickness and talent will give the coaching staff much flexibility. Look for the Lady Herd to defend, run, and score quicker than any team in the section.