Amador Valley’s girls basketball team is filled with many younger players joining this season. Upperclassmen have helped out the new incoming players and have found ways to create a strong team dynamic. 

Due to the loss of many seniors, coaches have promoted younger players and even a couple freshmen to give them the ability to prepare for the next few years.

“We have so many younger players this year because last year’s roster included a lot of seniors who are no longer with us. It’s exciting to have our players be majority underclassmen because that allows for a lot of room for growth and improvement over the next couple of years,” said Assistant Coach Faith Schinnick.

Older teammates have been great role models for the younger girls and are always able to help them out.

“One of the main things is we have a lot of plays and it’s hard to get used to that, so the older players always help to map that out for me and help me. Also, if I’m ever confused on defense or offense, they’re always there to support,” said Riya Sharda (‘25).

This team has found many ways to create strong bonds, enjoying the time they spend with each other.

“I think we have a really good team dynamic and chemistry overall, so it makes practices and games a lot of fun especially when you go on away tournaments. I think us being a younger team, we’re gonna be together for a really long time so it’s really good that we make those bonds early on,” said Caydence Likeness (‘25).

The team hasn’t had the success they hoped for at the beginning of the season, but the girls are moving in the right direction as they continue preparing for the future of the team.

“We are focusing our efforts on ending the season on a strong note and hopefully beating our two big rivals: Foothill and Granada. We have improved so much as players throughout the season and we are excited to see what the future holds,” said Shinnick.