In just under a week the girls’ basketball team at Carroll High School is scheduled to play their first varsity game of the 2015-2016 season. However, until last night it wasn’t even a given that the varsity team would exist this year. Recent concerns focused on the number of players out for the sport – only seventeen with no returning seniors – prompted a train of thought to withdraw from varsity level games for the season. Members of the Carroll Community School Board, however, asked for Athletic Director Keith Stribe’s professional opinion before making a decision at Monday night’s meeting. Stribe commented, “…to actually drop a varsity season is really drastic and it’s not just something that happens very often at all.” He was able to see the team in action playing scrimmage games over the weekend. He reported the eight freshman, six sophomores, and three juniors all have potential.
He says the girls’ enthusiasm to play at a higher level was also a factor which influenced his recommendation. He wanted to know their motivations prior to Monday night’s practice and his questions revealed their determination.
On the issue of a lack of returning players, Stribe also talked with those who did not return to the team this season. Their reasons, he says, ran the gamut.
Carroll’s progression through the conference lineup will still be tough, Stribe added, but hopefully the team will be able to pick each other back up and keep up a positive mentality moving forward.
Prior to the CCSD board meeting officials with the Iowa Girl’s Athletic Union had already been contacted regarding the proposal to withdraw from varsity games in the Raccoon River Valley Conference this season. Officials with the IGAU said an answer would be needed by Tuesday morning. With approval from the board Stribe’s response will be “to keep things as is.” The Carroll girl’s varsity basketball team will face their first challenge Monday, November 23, when they take on Atlantic at home.
