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Although nearly half of last years varsity girls basketball have graduated, the Lady Tigers are anticipating making noise within 4A girls basketball this season and are off to a fresh start. First year coach, Sarah Pfeifer, has been an integral part of very successful programs in the past, competing in the state championship games 3 out of 4 years. Pfeifer has had a lot of coaching and success and has plenty of experience under her belt. After playing for the University of Arkansas, she spent two years coaching at the University of Washington, Seattle, and then coached at several high schools in Arkansas. Fast forward to 2017, and Pfeifer is excited to be the engine behind a team with six seniors who bring lot of depth. Coach Pfeifer and Senior Jade Phillips, feel confident in the team’s potential; Jade stated that, “Coach Pfeifer brings a lot of knowledge to our team. She also knows how to motivate us, and understands how we play as a team.”

Every game will be accomplished as a complete team effort, because Pfeifer believes, “The fluidity of basketball makes each game such a team effort. When everyone understands their role and buys into that responsibility, those are the teams that win the most ballgames.”
As the importance of a team effort in every game is evident, Pfeifer seconds that through positive character and practice. “I’m big on team over individual, they are a group of hard workers, good listeners, and all around good people. Everyday they show up to practice and try their best to do what I ask of them. I have super high expectations of my teams, and they don’t shy away from that, but rather meet those expectations head on. They are resilient.”

On that topic of resilience, the team thrives with mental strength. Phillips also feels confident in the team’s chemistry since most have been playing together since middle school. And has high expectations for the team’s season, stating “this year I want to finish in the top three for league. I also want to go past two games within the playoffs.”

Last year, the team planted seeds with an unexpected win against a great Silver Creek team, and is looking forward to making similar memories. With full support of the Erie community, the Lady Tigers are going to go full throttle, and you sure don’t want to miss out!