The Carson City-Crystal girls basketball team is poised to restart its program following a challenging year that saw the cancellation of the varsity season due to low player numbers. Under the guidance of new head coach Deo Winsor, the Eagles are eager to return to competitive play. The team consists entirely of underclassmen, a unique challenge that Winsor is ready to tackle as he aims to build a strong foundation for the future.
New Beginnings for the Eagles
During practice on a recent Monday, freshman Crystal Coon showcased her skills while running offensive drills, embodying the enthusiasm that permeates the team. Winsor, who has a decade of coaching experience at various levels, including junior high and Little League, expressed optimism about the squad’s potential despite their lack of experience. “They enjoy playing basketball,” he said, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “With six freshmen, we’re going to take some lumps, but they all have good attitudes and they all work hard.”
Senior Cailyn Zemla, the team’s captain, echoed this sentiment. “I think we’re all just really excited to play,” she stated. “We just want to try and improve the program a lot this year.” Winsor’s coaching journey has been shaped by his previous positions, including coaching the seventh-grade girls team last season. His decision to take the varsity role came after witnessing the struggles of the team that prompted him to create a stable environment for the players.
Building Experience and Team Chemistry
Winsor’s coaching philosophy emphasizes hard work and positive attitudes. He aims to foster an atmosphere where players feel comfortable seeking guidance. “I want to try and be someone they’re not scared of,” Zemla said. “I want to create an environment where we can all trust each other and work together.” Winsor noted that Zemla has already emerged as a leader, inspiring her teammates through her actions. “She’s already been leading by example,” he remarked.
Despite the excitement, the Eagles face a steep learning curve. The team will be competing against older and more experienced players, a challenge that Zemla recognizes. “Understanding the reality of what we’re up against is going to be challenging,” she explained. Winsor has prepared his team with intense drills aimed at simulating game conditions, but the transition from junior varsity to varsity is significant.
Fortunately, the Eagles can draw on the experience of four returning players from last year’s junior varsity squad. Winsor views this as a critical advantage. “There’s definitely going to be some benefits to that,” he said, referring to the returning players as the core of the group. Their leadership will be essential in guiding the younger teammates.
As the team gears up for the season, Winsor has set expectations focused on improvement rather than immediate wins. “I expect to see improvement throughout the season,” he stated. “We’ve been tracking our free throws and we’re getting better every week.” With their competition schedule underway, the Eagles are ready to embrace the journey ahead, with hopes of securing a few victories along the way.
While the outcome of the season remains uncertain, the excitement and commitment from both the players and coaching staff are palpable. Zemla emphasized the blend of nerves and enthusiasm within the team. “I think that we’re all really nervous, which is to be expected,” she said. “I also think they’re all really excited and want to actually try and do some good things for us this year.”
Winsor concluded with a vision of camaraderie. “I want us to play with a good team atmosphere,” he said. “I think that we’re going to be a rough program at the beginning, but I believe by the end of the season, people are going to be impressed with what we’re going to do.” As the Eagles embark on this new chapter, their journey promises to be one of resilience and growth, setting the stage for a brighter future in Carson City-Crystal basketball.
