Lady Hematites looking to carry over an experienced core
ISHPEMING — The Lady Hematites went 6–6 within the conference last season and that was with a very young team that brings back most its core. And they have a lot of experience under their belt.
“I feel like we have really good team chemistry this year, and we’re more used to each other. We’re working together as a team, instead of individuals,” forward Marissa Maino said.
“We didn’t really know each other that well, because there were sophomores being brought up. This year, we just have better team dynamics because everyone knows each other. We don’t have to figure out who is where and stuff like that. We already know,” said guard Khora Swanson.
“Experience is key at this level, especially in the MPC with how many good teams we have. You have to have teams that have been there. Some of the close games that we lost last year was because of our youth. I’m hoping that we learn from those mistakes and grow as a program, and hopefully we’ll capitalize on wins in those situations,” head coach Ryan Reichel said.
Ishpeming will come into this season with one of the more talented rosters in the conference, but that talent will be matched by many of their opponents this season.
“You’ve got the Negaunee teams. We had a two, three minute spell in the districts and they capitalized on us. We got Munising in our district, another fully–loaded team. And then we got a Gwinn team that I don’t think is a sleeper team. I think they can do some things. That district is tough and we focus on the districts. Our goal is to be playing longer than anybody,” said Reichel.
The Lady Hematites will open their season on the road next Tuesday against Bark River Harris.