LCAA Girls Basketball Preview

Way-Co senior Alyssa Englert is the LCAA's top returning player. She signed recently to play on a full athletic scholarship to the University of Hartford.

The past several years, Livingston Conference girls’ basketball has been the best league from top to bottom in all of NYS.

But with the loss of Honeoye Falls-Lima to Monroe County; defending sectional champions Wayland-Cohocton and Perry both losing plenty of firepower, and a perennial power Avon losing six of their top eight players from a team that won 19 games a year ago, the word “transition” seems to fit for this year’s LCAA girls’ hoops teams.

The top returning player is Way-Co senior Alyssa Englert, who could be the most versatile player in all of Section V. She dumped in 15 points with over five assists a game last year.

Englert, who has signed a full scholarship to play at the University of Hartford, is Way-Co’s all-time assists leader (341) and is second all-time in steals (275), which she will break this season.

All three divisions are up for grabs, with LCAA D-III being the most wide open with five of the six teams all having a solid shot to win the crown.

Perry, the defending champions who ended Geneseo’s run, looks to be the early favorite with heavy competition expected to come from Keshequa, York, Pavilion and Geneseo.

Don’t be surprised if the winner from that division has four losses. Each night promises to be something special in D-III.

In D-I this season, Way-Co, Livonia and Dansville look to be the early favorites with Livonia getting the early nod with eight of their top nine back this season including seniors Ali Malinowski, Taryn VanThof, Brooke Mallaber, Jackie Minnehan, Kaylie Ewers, and Holli Pierce, along with junior Rachael Smith and sophomore Cassie Pope, who improved dramatically over the course of last season playing as a freshman.

Way-Co will obviously be tough to stop with Englert, but the loss of LCN Super-18 Player of the Year Leslie Havens, along with Terin Brown and Brittany Kemp will hurt deeply.

Dansville had the best season in school-history a year ago and they will also have to deal with the loss of several key players including top guard Margaret Infantino and top inside player Ashley Amidon.

Division II could also be a coin flip between Cal-Mum and Avon. The Lady Braves were a perfect 10-0 in the division a year ago but the loss of Lindsay Schwab, Marcy Manning, and Ali Schillinger — all LCN Super-18 picks — will most definitely hurt.

No other Section V girls’ program has won more games the past three years than Avon.

Cal-Mum could really give Avon a tussle this winter as the Lady Red Raiders return several starters including inside force Melanie Johnson and Emily Wade, along with playmakers Geena Grattan and Kelly Jo Stein.

2009-2010
Girls Basketball Preview

Division I

Way-Co
Lady Golden Eagles

Coach: John Crossett (6th season overall)

Last Year: 21-4 (Class BB champs)

Key Returners: Alyssa Englert (Sr., G, 15 ppg, 5.2 apg); Rachel Meyer (Sr., F, 4.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg); Tiana Cheasman (Jr., G, 4.2 ppg, 3.1 apg); Jillian Price (Sr., F, 3.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg).

Top Newcomers: Sarah Wolcott (Jr., G); Katelyn Venable (Fresh., F); Diane Cork (Soph., G); Erin King (Jr., G).

Coach’s Quote: “We have plenty of new faces, but we have a solid core to build around. We may start out slowly, but we hope to finish strong as our young players gain more varsity experience.”

LCN Notes: Last year’s Lady Golden Eagles celebrated the best season in school-history as they beat HF-L for the first time-ever and also topped Dansville for the Class BB title while making it all the way to the state quarterfinals before they fell to Olean (Sec. VI). Gone from that squad is LCN Super-18 Player of the Year Leslie Ann Havens, who dropped in over 1,300 points in her career, last year averaging 19 points a game. Outside threat Terin Brown is also gone. But the Lady Eagles do return the LCN Super-18 Defensive Player of the Year in Alyssa Englert, a talented 5-foot-9 guard who has received a full scholarship to play at D-I Hartford. Englert, last year’s Class BB MVP, is the best guard in Section V and she plays like she has eyes in the back of her head with great court awareness. With still one season left, she is Way-Co’s all-time assists leader (341) and is second all-time in steals (275). Last year she dropped in 15 points a game but will be asked to score even more this winter with the other four starters all graduating. Look for senior Rachel Meyer to add to her four points and four boards a game totals from last year. She’s a tough inside presence and should fare well in the post. Junior guard Tiana Cheasman was a key player off the bench last year and will get quality time handling the ball this season while senior forward Jillian Price got limited time last year but will get plenty of minutes in the paint this season. Top newcomer Sarah Wolcott averaged 12 points a game on JV’s a year ago and could have easily played up last year while freshman Katelyn Venable transferred back to Way-Co after playing varsity at Honeoye last season. Katelyn’s size and talent will be a welcome addition. Sophomore guard Diane Cork is a versatile player that will give Way-Co depth at the guard position while junior Erin King is a pure shooter and will look to be the zone buster off the bench. It might take a while for this team to gel, but once they do, look out for another run at the sectional title, especially (knock on wood) if Englert stays healthy.

Livonia Lady Bulldogs

Coach: Karen Schuster (20th season)

Last Year: 12-10 (Lost to Way-Co in ‘BB’ semifinals)

Key Returners: Ali Malinowski (Sr., G, 6.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 3.5 apg); Brooke Mallaber (Sr., G, 3.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 2.1 apg); Jackie Minnehan (Sr., F, 8.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 1.4 apg); Kaylie Ewers (Sr., G); Holli Pierce (Sr., F); Taryn VanThof (Sr., G, 6.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 3.8 apg); Rachael Smith (Jr., F, 3.0 ppg, 2.3 rpg); Cassie Pope (Soph., C, 8.6 ppg, 8.1 rpg).

Top Newcomers: Kelsi Blum (Jr., G); Allysa Hollingshead (Jr., G); Maggie Horan (Jr., G); Mallory Wingate (Jr., G); Kristen Zimmer (Jr., G).

Coach’s Quote: “Once again, we are behind the eight-ball from the get-go. Two weeks as a matter of fact as 12 of my 13 girls are on the state soccer team that advanced to the Final Four. We have a lot of work to catch up on if we plan to be competitive in D-I. We know our league will be tough again this year. Way-Co’s Alyssa Englert and her team will be tough to stop along with Dansville. Both those teams lost a lot due to graduation but we know they will still be strong. I’m sure we will struggle early on in our schedule but we hope to put things together by Christmas break. We have to remind ourselves that its not how you start but rather how you finish.”

LCN Notes: How tough does it have to be to coach girls’ basketball in Livonia? Very tough, especially with the success the girls’ soccer team has had the past four years with consecutive state Final Four appearances in Cortland. Coach Schuster had her entire team together for just seven practices before their first game against Le Roy. Schuster will also have a 10-day stretch in January when her seniors will be on their Senior Trip. Once this team gets into ‘Basketball Mode’ they will be tough to stop with plenty of firepower left over from last year’s 12-win season. A lot of scoring is back including four of their top five scorers in Cassie Pope (8.6 points), Jackie Minnehan (8.4), Taryn VanThof (6.4) and Ali Malinowski (6.4). Pope, only a sophomore, got some valuable varsity experience a year ago and could be a double-double candidate in the paint this season. VanThof could be the most athletic player on the team and will fill the stat sheet most nights. Look for outstanding guard play from Malinowski (3.5 assists), VanThof (3.8 assists), Mallaber (2.0 assists) and Kaylie Ewers all providing solid backcourt experience. The perimeter game will be a question mark with Jen Wilson graduating after leading the Lady Bulldogs in scoring (10 points per game) and three-point shooting. One thing’s for sure — Karen Schuster’s Lady Bulldogs will be cooking come sectional time. The Lady Bulldogs have won the LCAA Sportsmanship award the past two years.

Dansville Lady Mustangs

Coach: Brandon Morrow (4th season)

Last Year: 16-7 (Lost to Way-Co in Class BB finals)

Key Returners: Morgan Kennedy (Sr., F, 6-0); Taylor Harnish (Sr., G, 5-6); Justina Barlack (Sr., F, 5-9).

Top Newcomers: Emilea Harrison (Jr., G, 5-6); Hailey Sick (Soph., G/F, 5-9); Abbey Pierce (Soph., G, 5-4); Anna Rauber (Soph., F, 5-10); Michelle Mease (Soph., G, 5-6).

Coach’s Quote: “These young ladies are a great group to work with. We will miss our graduates from last year dearly, however we know this group is hungry and wants to win and make a name for themselves as well. Having four sophomores contributing on the varsity will make it tough at times, however, this group is more than capable of doing very well this year as long as they stay calm and remember the basics.”

LCN Notes: Head coach Brandon Morrow and his Lady Mustangs broke the school-record with 16 victories a year ago making it all the way to the ‘BB’ finals before dropping a close one to Way-Co. The loss of six talented seniors will hurt for sure. Point-guard Niki DeBell is gone as was top player Margi Infantino. Both are at FLCC. Infantino was a LCAA Super-18 pick after averaging 14.2 points and nearly 11 rebounds a game. Also gone are Ashley Amidon, who is playing at RIT, and Ryan Doerr and Erika Gross, who both played soccer this past fall at FLCC. While the Mustangs will miss Infantino’s stat-stuffing numbers, they will also miss Amidon’s inside presence. At 6-foot-1, Amidon gave Dansville a huge advantage in the paint after averaging 10 points and nine rebounds a game. This team lost a ton of firepower but they return a trio of seniors, including six-foot, senior forward Morgan Kennedy, who was named to the Class BB all tourney team a year ago. Also back are seniors Taylor Harnish, who can shoot the jay, and Justina Barlack, who plays much bigger than her 5-foot-9 frame. Coach Morrow expects his sophomore foursome to contribute, which will definitely help down the road. If the off-season work-outs were any indication, Dansville, according to Morrow, had “100 percent participation in the Livonia spring league and summer league, and many open gym/weight room sessions.” There will be many people out there that feel this program lost way too many weapons to make an impact this winter. But good programs, like Dansville’s, run top to bottom, so expect the wins to continue.

Bath Lady Rams

Coach: Randy Abrams

Last Year: 7-15 (Lost in Class BB first round).

Key Returners: Rachel Oest (Jr., G/F, 5.1 ppg); Megan Russell (Jr., G/F, 4.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg); Courtney Coots (Soph., F, 5.1 ppg, 6.2 rpg); Nikki Murat (Sr., G, 5.2 ppg).

Top Newcomers: Jordan Yastremski (Soph., F); Toni Townsend (Soph., G); Morgan Wheat (Soph., G); Allyson Muller (Soph., G); Colleen Fagan (Jr., F); Jessica Beebe (Sr., F); Shelby Ogden (Sr., F); Meghan Eveland (Jr., G).

Coach’s Quote: “We make take some early lumps in the season, but I think we can surprise some people as the season goes on. Our first order of business is going to find a leader for our young team.”

LCN Notes: With only four returning player from last year’s team, the Lady Rams will have eight new faces on varsity this winter. Bath graduated a trio of three-year varsity players last year so this season might take awhile to get things to gel. The Lady Rams will look to returning starters Rachel Oest, Megan Russell and Courtney Coots to gets things going as the younger players develop. That trio was good for 15 points and 13 rebounds a game last year. Nikki Murat, the lone returning senior that was on the varsity roster a year ago, also put down five points a game and her varsity experience will come in handy. A 10-win season would be a huge success.

Hornell Lady Raiders

Coach: Steve Sleight (1st season)

Last Year: 9-11 (Lost in ‘BB’ first round to Waterloo)

Key Returners: Sarah Huels (Sr., F/C); Julie Nichols (Sr.); Nikki Daniels (Jr., G, 5-3); Aubrey Wilkins (Jr., G, 5-4); Ally Roberts (Soph., C, 5-10).

Top Newcomers: Carli Hooker (Jr., G, 5-2); Aryn Smith (Jr., F, 5-7); Natalie Crosby (Soph.); Jackie Lieb (Soph., F, 5-9); Jallese Knighton (Soph., F, 5-10); Tiffany Cross (Soph., G, 5-6); Danielle Richardson (Soph., G, 5-3).

Coach’s Quote: “We are very young but they are hard working and coming along well. I expect there to be a learning curve because of a new coach and system but we will eventually get through that and we should be competitive. My knowledge of the league could hurt a little bit until I get used to the league.”

LCN Notes: Head coach Steve Sleight takes over the Lady Red Raiders after Kirk Scholes moved over to coach the boys. Sleight coached for 22 seasons at Canaseraga, eight at the varsity level, so his experience will help this team. Last year’s Lady Raiders won the Alfred State Tournament and cruised to nine victories overall, although they were just 2-8 in LCAA D-I. The good news for Hornell is they don’t have to worry about two guaranteed losses anymore with HF-L no longer in the LCAA. Hornell will get a tough early test as they take on Geneseo in the first round of the Lady Devils Basketball Tournament Friday. They open up divisional play Dec. 11 at home against Dansville. Expect this team to make a run at a solid season, maybe 12 wins.

LCN Predictions- 1) Livonia; 2) Way-Co; 3) Dansville; 4) Hornell; 5) Bath

Division II

Avon Lady Braves

Coach: Pete Leone (15th season)

Last Year: 19-3 (LCAA D-II champs; Lost to Nazareth in ‘CC’ quarterfinals)

Key Returners: Jill Emmighausen (Sr., F/C, 6-1, 4.6 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 1.8 bpg); Emily Savino (Sr., F, 5-9, 1.2 ppg, 2.3 rpg); Kelsey Piampiano (Sr., G, 5-8, 1.1 ppg, 1.4 rpg); Jessie Ingersoll (Sr., G, 5-6, 1.1 ppg, 1.1 rpg); Carrie Pfluke (Sr., F, 5-8, 2.2 ppg, 2.9 rpg); Danielle Sancilio (Jr., 5-4, G, 1.9 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 1.3 spg); Katie Sattora (Jr., G, 6.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.1 spg).

Top Newcomers: Johanna Hanchar (Jr., G, 5-9); Emily Mulligan (Jr., C/F, 5-10); Melody Young (Jr., G, 5-5).

Coach’s Quote: “We should be competitive within our division. Some of the keys to success will be in our ability to defend and rebound. We will continue to depend on those to aspects to create offense in transition. Staying healthy is also a concern with the team possessing solid depth overall, but not being able to afford to take hits in key positions. This is a very intelligent and hard working group who has a high ceiling if they continue to progress and avoid injuries.”

LCN Notes: No other Section V team has won more girls’ basketball games the past five seasons than the Avon Braves. Last year they captured another LCAA D-II title with a perfect 10-0 divisional mark. A tough quarterfinal setback to Private-school Nazareth hurt but not as much as losing graduated seniors Lindsay Schwab, Marcy Manning and Ali Schillinger. All three were LCN Super-18 picks that combined for 27 points, 20 rebounds, and over 10 assists a game. Those numbers will be tough to overcome. The loss of Manning’s inside presence will be softened a bit with six-foot senior captain Jill Emmighausen’s return. Emmighausen will be a double-double threat this winter. She has played a significant role on both last year’s team and the team that went to the state Final Four two years ago and is currently climbing the school’s career rebounding and blocked shots lists and is a scoring threat from both inside and outside. Teams will have to play her honest in the post which should open up the Lady Braves’ perimeter attack with junior sharpshooter Katie Sattora, who saw plenty of minutes towards the end of last season. Sattora and Danielle Sancilio will be called upon to handle most of the ball handling responsibilities. Both players came up to varsity late last season and gained valuable experience. Sattora is a legitimate scoring threat who finished second on the team in three point field goals last year. Sancilio will handle the point guard position and is a player who is strong with the ball and has excellent court vision. Emily Savino received valuable game experience last season and her versatility will enable her to play both forward and guard. Kelsey Piampiano and Jessie Ingersoll are guards who will provide additional senior leadership. Both players are capable of scoring in transition and Piampiano’s athleticism makes her an excellent defender. Carrie Pfluke is a physically strong and aggressive player who adds depth in the front court as a rebounding presence. Newcomer Emily Mulligan adds more depth in the post as a player with great length and an instinct for rebounding, having averaged double digit rebounds on JV’s a year ago while Johanna Hanchar and Melody Young add depth at the guard position. Look for this team to improve as the season goes on but also expect early struggles.

Cal-Mum Lady Raiders

Coach: Mike Reed (2nd season)

Last Year: 11-10 (Lost to Pembroke in CC first round)

Key Returners: Melanie Johnson (Sr., F, 6.0 ppg); Geena Grattan (Sr., G, 3.0 apg, 2.0 spg); Emily Wade (Jr., F, 4.0 ppg, 6.0 rpg); Kelly Jo Stein (Jr., G, 2.0 apg); Jane Schweichler (Sr., F); Dana Sass (Jr., F); Chloe Naujokas (Sr., F); Joanne Kruchten (Sr., F); Emma McIlwaine (Sr., G); Brittany Sass (Sr., G).

Top Newcomers: Danielle Wilson (Jr., G); Sam Burnside (Jr., F).

Coach’s Quote: “Last year the team really came together toward the end of the season winning several games in a row heading into sectionals. With several returning players we hope to get off to a faster start and challenge for county and sectional titles.”

LCN Notes: Head coach Mike Reed did a solid job with last year’s team leading them to 11 victories while playing their best brand of basketball at the end of the season. He will have to find a way to replace graduates Christina Harmon and Kelly Cornwell this winter. Harmon was a LCN Super-18 pick after averaging a team-best 11 points and eight rebounds a game. Expect senior forward and co-captain Melanie Johnson to have a banner year as she was second on the team in scoring a year ago at six points a game. She will get help in the paint from junior forward Emily Wade, who was a solid rebounder last year with six caroms a game. Senior guard Geena Grattan was the team’s top playmaker last year with three dimes a game while backcourt mate and co-captain Kelly Jo Stein, a junior guard, will provide plenty of punch. Senior forward Jane Schweichler provided a spark off of bench last year and will move into the starting rotation this winter. Junior forward Dana Sass was a defensive stopper last year who will be called upon to do more scoring. This team has all the makings of a D-II title winner, but they need to cut down on their turnovers. Expect them to make a run at the LCAA D-II crown.

Warsaw Lady Tigers

Coach: Kristin Loftus (1st season)

Last Year: 3-18

Key Returners: Katy Monahan (Jr., PG); Ashley Hulme (Jr., SG); Stephanie Simard (Jr., F); Kara O’Neil (Sr., F); Morgan Monahan (Soph., G).

Top Newcomers: Karmen Auble (8th grade, F); Shelby Kruppner (Soph., G/F); Sabrina Ellsworth (Soph., F); Nicole Pavone (Jr., G); Kathryn Moens (Jr., F).

Coach’s Quote: “The coaching staff looks forward to a new season with a new attitude and high expectations.”

LCN Notes: Head coach Kristin Loftus takes over for John Gibson as the Lady Tigers try and improve over last year’s three-win season. The good news is she only lost one player to graduation. The bad news is that player was LCN Super-18 selection Kelly Dumbleton, who was the do-everything player a year ago averaging eight points, six rebounds and three assists per game. This year’s team will also be young with just one senior (Kara O’Neil) on the roster. Junior Katy Monahan is an athletic point-guard while classmate Ashley Hulme is a solid shooting guard who can knock down the jumper. Sophomore Morgan Monahan will help in the backcourt. O’Neil and junior Steph Simard are both solid inside presences while eighth-grader Karmen Auble is very athletic with great jumping ability evidence from her state-record in the pole vault. Rebounding and perimeter shooting will be early question marks. Look for the youthful Tigers to go through some early growing pains.

Le Roy Lady Knights

Coach: Brian Herdlein (1st season)

Last Year: 2-16

Key Returners: Allison Macomber (Jr., F/G, 5-6); Savannah Casper (Jr., C/F, 5-6); Mary Cappotelli (Sr., G/F, 5-5); Kaley Bishop (Sr., G, 5-0); Rachel Hayward (Jr., G, 5-3); Jenna Merica (Jr., G, 5-7); Alyssa Moore (Jr., G/F, 5-7); Stephanie Fodge (Jr., G/F, 5-7).

Top Newcomers: Stephanie McVicker (Jr., G, 4-11); Kelsey Zanett (Soph., G/F, 5-8); Katie Rogers (Jr., C/F, 5-8); Kristi Miller (Soph., G/F, 5-8).

Coach’s Quote: “We have a young team that is hoping to improve on last season’s record. This team has shown a lot of improvement in the short time we have been together. With hard work each and every day this group of young ladies has the potential to have a successful season. I am looking for some key players to step up and provide the leadership needed for a breakout year.”

Letchworth Lady Indians

Coach: Mark Sanderson (14th season)

Last Year: 6-15

Key Returners: Sabrina Wilhoite (Sr., G); Kelly Proper (Jr., C/F, 5-9); Jessica Granger (Jr., G/F, 5-9); Samantha Johnson (Jr., G, 5-7).

Top Newcomers: Elisha Conklin (Jr., G, 5-5); Josie Dean (Fresh., G, 5-7); Kristen Weber (Jr., G, 5-5); ; Tori Greenaker (Soph., G/F, 5-7); Molly Koerner (Jr., F/C, 5-7); Shayna Remington (Jr., G/F, 5-5); Rebecca Wyant (Jr., C, 5-9); Jennifer Bub (Jr., F, 5-6); Andrea Dean (Soph., F/C, 5-10).

Coach’s Quote: “We only have four returning players from last year’s team. With only one senior we’re quite young and inexperienced, although we should be competitive and hope to peak as always come sectional time. We have some size that I’m hoping will allow us some diversity for our inside and outside game in our offense. The LCAA is always one of the toughest leagues, so we’ll benefit greatly from the competition we’ll see night in and night out.”

LCN Notes: Nobody gets more out of his kids than Indians’ head coach Mark Sanderson, who will start his ninth season at LCS (14th overall). Although he only returns four players from a year ago that won just six games, two of those were standouts including leading scorer and rebounder Kelly Proper, a junior, who will play both guard and forward. Also back is senior point-guard Sabrina Wilhoite, last year’s No. 2 scorer who can penetrate and dish as well as score from the inside and outside. Look for returning juniors Samantha Johnson and Jessica Granger to increase their level. Top newcomers include junior guard Elisha Conklin, a great defender with tremendous edge and hustle; sophomore Andrea Dean, a 5-foot-10 center/forward; sophomore G/F Tori Greenaker, a solid shooter who will see a significant amount of playing time; junior G/F Shayna Remington, a versatile player who will provide flexibility and depth; and junior forward Jennifer Bub, who will get time off the bench to help with the inside game. This team might still be a year away, but never count out a Sanderson-coached team so look for a run at 10 wins.

LCN Predictions- 1) Cal-Mum; 2) Avon; 3) Le Roy; 4) Letchworth; 5) Warsaw

Division III

Keshequa Lady Indians

Coach: Pete Piraino (31st season)

Last Year: 14-8 (Lost to Batavia ND in DD quarterfinals)

Key Returners: Morgan Howe (Jr., C, 11.0 ppg, 10.2 rpg); Catherine Mucha (Sr., G); Alex Flint (Fresh., G); Gabrielle DiAngelo (Soph., F).

Top Newcomers: Katalyn Gelser (Jr., C); Kristen Jackson (Fresh., F): Lindsay Piraino (8th, G).

Coach’s Quote: “We have a very young team looking to improve and get better. This is a great group of girls to work with.”

LCN Notes: Last year’s Lady Indians celebrated a successful season winning 14 games before dropping a heartbreaking 51-50 ‘DD’ sectional quarterfinal game to Batavia Notre Dame. Keshequa had big wins last year over Class B champ Wellsville and Class C top-seed Alexander. Keshequa will have to replace a few graduates including Kayla Beardsley, Charise Gelser and Amanda Gath. Keshequa’s top player last year was Morgan Howe, a junior center, who earned LCN Super-18 honors after posting double-double numbers of 11 points and 10 boards a game. You can expect those numbers to increase this year despite facing double teams from opposing players. Senior guard Catherine Mucha is a dangerous outside threat while Alex Flint is one of the most dangerous freshmen in Section V. Flint’s athleticism will help at both ends of the floor. Look for Gabby DiAngelo to provide solid minutes in the post. This team has the ability to make things happen. Watch for them come sectional time.

Geneseo Lady Devils

Coach: Paul Hazard (5th season)

Last Year: 12-10 (Lost to South Seneca in ‘C’ quarterfinals)

Key Returners: Brynn Young (Sr., F, 5-9, 8.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 2.4 spg); Emily Ingalls (Sr., G, 5-5, 2.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg); Hannah Livingston (Sr., F, 5-10, 4.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg); Erin Adonnino (Jr., G, 5-3, 2.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.0 spg); Laura Pavone (Jr., G, 5-4, 1.8 spg); Amy Martin (Jr., F, 5-9, 2.2 ppg); Steph Mackey (Sr., G, 5-7).

Top Newcomers: Kelsey Lagana (Sr., F, 5-9); Cassie Clar (Soph., 5-6); Celine Lagana (Fresh., G); Alley Lattime (Jr., F); Liz DaBramo (Jr., G); Amber Lennington (Jr.); Julie Fitzpatrick (Jr.).

Coach’s Quote: “This is going to be a fun year in our division, as there are five teams capable of beating anyone on a given night. We need to be ready every night and understand that ultimately we will be judged on what we do together and how we make each other better.”

LCN Notes: The numbers don’t lie — four LCAA titles in five years; two sectional finals appearances in three years; and three semifinal appearances in four years. This is a program that had plenty of those streaks snapped last year, and they are hungry to regain the division title that Perry snatched from them a year ago. They are also hungry for a chance at redemption after getting knocked off in the quarterfinals last February. Three starters return from a team that won 12 games including victories over state-ranked Elba, and sectional champ Perry. Senior forward Brynn Young is a stat stuffer and she should increase her eight points and nearly seven board a game average this winter. Young is a solid post player with great hands and court vision. If she stays focused this season expect her to make a run at 15 points and 13 rebounds a game. “Brynn may be the best interior defender in Livingston County, and offensively, is capable of exploding offensively at any time,” says coach Hazard. Young will get help in the post from 5-foot-10 classmate Hannah Livingston, a total team player with great hustle. Look for junior Amy Martin, a 5-foot-9 forward, to help out in the paint as well. The backcourt will feature junior point-guard Erin Adonnino, who improved immensely over the course of last season. She’s an excellent passer who runs the floor well. The Lady Devils’ defensive stopper is senior guard Emily Ingalls who is an in-your-shorts defender at all times. Senior Steph Mackey, a 5-foot-7 shooting guard, returns from an injury and is expected to contribute heavily this winter. Her perimeter game is something that should give the opposition trouble. Mackey starred during Geneseo’s sectional run to the 2008 finals. This team will play great defense night in and night out — but can they score? Look for Geneseo to continue to improve over the course of the season, and if they get solid outside shooting, along with defensive rebounds, they could make their way towards another final.

Perry Lady Yellowjackets

Coach: Brent Gillett (3rd season; 40-9 overall)

Last Year: 18-7 (Class C champs)

Key Returners: Casey Chamberlain (Sr., G, 8 ppg, 5 rpg); Cortney Chamberlain (Sr., F, 10 ppg, 8 rpg); Stephanie Dueppengiesser (Sr., G); Elise Eberstein (Jr., G); Danielle Kwiecien (Soph., G).

Top Newcomers: Lauren Smith (Jr., G); Erika Miller (Jr., F); Chelsea Trickett (Jr., G); Kayleigh Cicero (Fresh., G).

Coach’s Quote: “We play in a very competitive division and sectional bracket. Our goal is to work hard in practice every day and to execute in games.”

LCN Notes: The two-time defending sectional champs will have to replace LCN Super-18 selection Samantha Smithgall (10 ppg, 9 rpg) who was the Lady Yellowjackets’ go-to girl in the clutch. Look for 5-foot-10 senior forward Cortney Chamberlain (10 ppg, 8 rpg) to fill those shoes as her athleticism will increase both those numbers. Twin sister Casey Chamberlain will give Perry a great advantage in the paint and those two could be the best one-two punch in LCAA D-III. Elise Eberstein will run the point and has great court vision. This team will play hard at both ends, something head coach Brent Gillett preaches more than most. Can they three-peat? If they get solid guard play, and stay healthy — yes!

York Lady Golden Knights

Coach: Tom Sherwood (4th season)

Last Year: 12-10 (Lost to Lyons in ‘C’ quarterfinals)

Key Returners: Jenna Lynn (Sr., PG, 10 ppg); Ashley Grant (Sr., F, 6 ppg); Alex Wall (Sr., C, 6 ppg); Taylor Shutts (Jr., F, 10 ppg); Kim Clark (Jr., F, 6 ppg); Megan VanNorman (Jr., PG, 4 ppg).

Top Newcomers: Alane Perry (Sr., C); Sammi Stein (Jr., C/F); Brianna Swezey (Jr., C); Courtney Bonadonna (Jr., G); Abby Barefoot (Soph., G); Jessica Nevin (Soph., G); Chelsey Dubiel (Soph., G); Jessica Willies (Soph., C).

Coach’s Quote: “This is the most athletic group that I’ve had here. They have good work-ethic and seem to like basketball as they worked hard this past off-season. It will be nice to see the results from their hard work. The LCAA is going to be strong this year. Division Three is going to be very competitive. It is going to be exciting.”

LCN Notes: Coach Tom Sherwood enters his fourth season after guiding last year’s team to 12 victories including a pair of wins over rival Geneseo. Plenty of scoring returns from last year including senior point-guard Jenna Lynn (10 points) and junior forward Taylor Shutts (10 points). Seniors Ashley Grant and Alex Wall, and junior Kim Clark all averaged six points a game and should give York plenty of depth in the scoring department this winter. This is the first year in quite some time that Sherwood had his girls ready on the first day of practice as the soccer team failed to qualify for the state tournament. Look for this group to play outstanding ‘D’ and play an excellent half-court game.

Pavilion Lady Gophers

Coach: Vern Brooks (6th season)

Last Year: 12-10 (Lost in ‘C’ semifinals)

Key Returners: Amie Brooks (Sr., PG, 5-6); Erin Cleveland (Soph., G, 5-4); Marcella Ethington (Sr., C/F, 5-8); Ali Ghise (Sr., F, 5-8); Emily Hoffmeister (Sr., F, 5-7); Danielle Tallo (Soph., G, 5-6).

Top Newcomers: Melanie Taylor (8th grade, G, 5-6); Kailey Meeder (Sr., F, 5-6); Tiffany Conntett (Sr., F, 5-5).

Coach’s Quote: “I am looking forward to a successful season. Moving to Division Three will prove to be challenging for my kids, but they are up to the challenge. We have strong senior leadership, along with two tough sophomores and an eighth grader round out the team perfectly. I tell the girls, ‘Success is determined by how determined you are to succeed,’ and I can tell you, this group of girls is determined. They are hard working, on and off the court and most importantly they are all terrific role models in our community. I am very proud of this group and very excited for the season to begin.”

LCN Notes: Pavilion coach Vern Brooks has done a terrific job turning this program into a proven winner, year after year during his previous five seasons. This year will be no exception as his senior daughter Amie is one of the top players in the LCAA and a reigning LCN Super-18 player. Look for her to make an impact at both ends of the floor and she could be a 20-point a night player. Last year she scored a team-best 325 points (14.8 ppg) and also led team in steals (4.9 spg) and assists (3.2 apg). Brooks also led team with 33 three-pointers. Don’t expect Brooks to sit out many minutes as her court presence will be valuable. Ali Ghise, Marcella Ethington and Emily Hoffmeister will provide solid minutes in the front court while Erin Cleveland and Danielle Tallo will help Brooks in the backcourt. This team will be athletic, although depth might be a concern with just nine players on the roster, including two sophomores and an eighth-grader. This squad will contend for the D-III title.

Mount Morris Lady Blue Devils

Coach: Marc Gardner (2nd season)

Last Year: 1-20

Key Returners: Eleni Green (Sr., C, 5-10, 5 rpg).

Top Newcomers: Sophie Lonsberry (Jr., F, 5-7); Lindsay Saltsman (Jr., G, 5-6); Emily Templeton (Jr., G, 5-2); Samantha Trippi (Soph., G, 5-4).

Coach’s Quote: “With virtually all new players this year, we will be young, but more aggressive. This group works better as a team, and I hope we will surprise some teams this year. Our division has grown in size and competitiveness and this will make us stronger as the season progresses as we prepare for Class D sectionals.”

LCN Notes: Only one returning player is back from a team that struggled to just one victory a year ago. Senior Summer Jones quit the team last season and school rules prohibit a player from returning to a team the following year. They also lost leading scorer Anna Brado, who was just an eighth-grader a year ago and transferred to Nazareth. Senior Eleni Green is the lone player back after hauling down five caroms a game last year. Sophomore Samantha Trippi, is the daughter of Mount Morris Hall of Famer Sam Trippi. “She brings great leadership and skill to her position,” says coach Gardner. Don’t expect miracles but a five win season in a very competitive LCAA D-III would be a nice start.

LCN Predictions- 1) Perry; 2) Keshequa; 3) Geneseo; 4) Pavilion; 5) York; 6) Mount Morris