ETV News Stock Photo by Dusty Butler
The Lady Spartans basketball team has been an unstoppable force the last few years. They are back-to-back state champions and went undefeated at every level (varsity, JV and freshman) last season. For Emery’s reign to continue, the team will have to overcome a new challenge: lack of experience.
After losing their top six contributors from the two-time state champion team, the Lady Spartans will need to adapt as quickly as possible to the varsity level. This year’s squad simply did not have the opportunity to play many minutes due to the six solid seniors that bolstered last year’s team. Although there is a lack of varsity experience, this group is not young. Head coach Lynn Tuttle is hoping that his four seniors can “step up and show leadership.”
Coach Tuttle saw encouraging signs and growth during summer games. The Lady Spartans made it to the championship game in the USUE Tournament only to fall in overtime to Salem Hills. They were, however, able to beat larger 4A and 5A schools to reach the final game.
“We are athletic but we are not as big as in years past,” Tuttle said. “I know we play fast, but we have got to keep our fast pace and avoid half court sets against bigger teams.”
Emery competes in the toughest region, which can be both a blessing and a curse. “We are going to be competitive, but there are no gimmes.” San Juan is bringing back key returners, former assistant coach at Emery, Laura Stearns, is skipper of South Sevier while Carbon and Richfield are always well coached. “Carbon’s strength this year is their guard play and Richfield’s Coach Peterson is the number one preparer. There is no off day; every game will be a battle,” remarked Tuttle.
Although many challenges lie ahead, Emery’s goals have not changed. The Lady Spartans will have to build off a solid summer and grow fast to take home another region title and compete for a third straight state championship. Only time will tell if Emery is up to the task.