NEW LEXINGTON - First-year head coach Don Epifano sees talent and potential in a young New Lexington squad.
He
also understands what the girls basketball program is built on, being a
member of the coaching staff since 1998. Epifano was the junior varsity
coach for the past 10 years, including all nine under his predecessor,
Anthony Stephens.
The Panthers were 7-17 last season and
graduated three key players, Allie Russell, Lauren Skillman and Maria
Fondale. Russell averaged 19 points and 13 rebounds, Skillman was a
three-year letter winner at point guard, and Fondale was the team’s top
defender.
Three seniors, Bailey Davisson, Makala Shipley
and Miranda Ward, will help guide New Lex, which features nine
sophomores or freshmen on the 13-player roster.
“It’s hard to replace that production, but we will lean on
our seniors,” Epifano said. “Miranda is a hard worker, and Makala and
Bailey will have to carry the load early. They have to be our leaders
and help lay the groundwork of what we want to do. We know they’ll set a
great example.”
Despite the low numbers, Epifano likes
the talent of his underclassmen. Sophomore Olivia Rose, a 5-9 guard who
started as a freshman, highlights that group.
“With
Olivia’s size, we hope to take advantage of that and her skill on both
ends of the floor,” he said. “We’re moving some younger kids up and
throwing them into the fire. Hopefully, they understand what we need
from them and can handle it well.”
Assistant coaches
Tracy Hambel and Jake Stewart will aid Epifano in the transition. Their
experience should help the development of the underclassmen.
Epifano also knows the Panthers must play with intensity and energy, whether in practice or games.
“When
our girls have played hard, they’ve competed in scrimmages, and when we
don’t, we haven’t,” he said. “I don’t know anyone who has had success
without doing that. We’re trying to build their confidence, and we’re
demanding them to play with energy.”
Seeing improvement
throughout the season is the focus. Epifano hopes if the Panthers can
find success, it will benefit the program beyond this season.
“We
hope to have a good season and generate some enthusiasm,” he said.
“It’s going to take some time, and we’re hoping our girls gain
confidence. It’s a work in progress, but our hope is to be a sectional
title contender by the tournament.”