After a dismal 2012-13 season that produced only two wins, the Mancos High School girls basketball team is hoping that this year brings better results.
Led by first year coach and former Mancos basketball player Mallory Morgan, the Bluejays are hoping that a fast-paced attack will lead to victories.
BLUEJAYS WILL RELY ON SOPHOMORE GUARD, SENIOR LEADERSHIP
Leading that attack will be sophomore point guard Jessica Gutierrez, who, after a solid volleyball season, will take her talents to the hardwood.
"I have really strong guard play this year," explained Mallory Morgan. "Numbers wise, we don't have a lot, but these girls have been playing together for a long time."
Complimenting Gutierrez will be senior guard Brandi Bundy, who, along with solid shooting, hopes to bring leadership to her team.
"It's important for the girls to try their hardest," said Bundy. "It is important to compete and work together."
Also playing a key role for the Bluejays will be senior guard Whitney Gustufson and senior forward Emily Funmaker.
Speaking about the upcoming season, Funmaker stated, "Things are going really well. I like our new coach. We all play well together."
BLUEJAYS LOOKING
TO PLAY FAST
Hoping to take advantage of their fast guards and athletic post players, the Bluejays will run as much as possible.
"We're going to play with a lot of motion and a lot of movement," said Morgan. "We're looking to push the ball because we are quick and we are fast."
In order to aid their fast paced offense, the Bluejays will play aggressive man-to-man defense in hopes of forcing turnovers and creating fast break opportunities.
"I think we're going to be really good at running," said Funmaker. "We run a lot in practice, so running isn't hard for us right now."
DOLORES GAMES
HIGHLIGHT SEASON
As coaches and players are well aware, playing in the San Juan Basin League is no easy task and the Bluejays figured to be challenged every night.
Highlighting this season's schedule will be matchups against the Dolores Bears on Dec. 20 and Feb. 22.
"We would like to get out of the District Tournament," said Mallory Morgan, discussing the schedule and the season. "That's our goal. We want to take things game by game."
