Lady Bulldogs Basketball Team Travels to First Game on Saturday

The Lady Bulldogs basketball team is young, but gaining varsity experience will be the focus of the 2020-2021 season. “I’m excited to see how much this team can grow and compete,” says head coach Brian Pauli. Pauli, who is in his fifth year at the helm of the Lady Bulldogs, says, “If we can figure out how to play as a team and get experience, I think we might surprise people…”

MHS will be led by seniors Lindsey Mertens and Madi Thue. According to Pauli, Mertens brings the most experience. “Lindsey has the ability to help the team with scoring and extra ball handling.” Thue got her feet wet playing varsity last year.  Pauli says, “This will help her be more confident. Defense and her athleticism are her biggest assets.”

In addition to the two seniors, returning starters include sophomore Maurina Street and eighth grader Isabella Anderson. Junior Tatum Berry also saw varsity time last season. Players competing for playing time are: sophomores Ellie Neugebauer, Jenna Dexter, Elsie Seffrood, Emily Wollschlager, Camryn Wiese, Averie Engebretson, and Madi Loeschke; freshmen Hope Karels and Shaylee Schuchard; and eighth grader Tyra Berry.

Other players on the high school varsity squad include: freshmen Nadia Thue, Ivy Lewno, Cailey Sime, Bella Van Lith, and Jacqlin Wiik; and eighth graders Claire Snaza, Siera Wenzl, Ella Sandvig, Rylee Scoular, and Josie Riveland.

Coach Pauli is assisted by Eric Townsend and Kelli Hoff. Nicole Berg is the team’s strength coach. Jaecy Engebretson will volunteer as an assistant. “I expect the team to get better every day and every game,” says Pauli. “We also need to develop chemistry and grow up as a team as the season is played.”

The Lady Bulldogs take the court for their opening game in Lennox on Saturday, December 12.