‘High hoops’ for Wolverines

Both boys and girls basketball teams win their way to the first round of the state tournament

by Courtney Oldwyn

Journal reporter

Girls Basketball

The Lady Wolverines have battled their way to the state tournament after beating the La Conner Braves twice in a row last week.

“Our girls showed a lot of determination to accomplish this feat,” said coach Fred Woods.

On Thursday, Feb. 18 the Friday Harbor team played La Conner at Sedro Woolley High School. They were down by 10 points at the beginning of the fourth period but rallied with a 16-1 run to end the game with a 35–30 win.

“Points came from several different players to pull off the great comeback,” said Woods. “Thursday proved that we really are a team.”

Saturday’s game was another close one with an ending score of 29–24. Junior Hayden Mayer sank two free throws with just over 20 seconds left in the game to steal the win.

“It was pressure packed but she met the challenge,” said Woods.

He notes the contribution to the team that the four graduating seniors – Allie Galt, Taylor Turnbull, Lili Wood and Madi Kincaid – have made to their winning season.

“La Conner had to do everything they could to keep Allie Galt from scoring,” said Woods. “There is no doubt that next year what these four girls have given the team will be really missed.”

The first game for the Lady Wolverines in the state tournament is Saturday, Feb. 27 at 4 p.m. at Mt. Vernon High School against Wahhkiakum.

Boys Basketball

The Wolverine boys basketball team beat rival La Conner 62–46 Thursday, Feb. 18, clinching their spot in the state tournament. The boys led almost the entire game thanks in part to senior players. Luke Stromberg landed 22 points and Kyle Janguard made 18 points.

“This year’s seniors brought what you hope seniors will bring to the team: consistent leadership, which has grown throughout the year and their experience,” said coach Rod Turnbull.

Friday Harbor will face Ocasta on Saturday, Feb. 27 at Mount Vernon High School in the first round of the tournament.

“We have not played them before. They’re a pretty strong team,” said Turnbull of Ocasta. “As a group we’ve started working together better. The team is pretty focused right now and if both of those things continue we have a good chance at a win.”

If the boys or girls win their Saturday games, they will move on to the 2B State Championships in Spokane March 3-5.

Mike Martin, of www.fhTinyRadio.com (or 1650 AM in town) will host coverage, including a play by play beginning 15 minutes before each of the Friday Harbor High School games.