Dora hopes to rebound from losing season

The Dora Lady Coyotes are hoping this season yields one, two and three-point victories, not losses.

They’re hoping last year’s young squad now has the experience to fight through the pressure of a close game.

And, like any team one season later, they’re hoping last year’s kinks and cobwebs are nothing more than bad memories — only to be replaced by an aura of confidence and teamwork.

Dora coach Bill Stockton said it’s time the Lady Coyotes see “the fruits of their labor,” after last season’s paltry 6-18 (3-7 in district) record.

“We just couldn’t quite get over the hump (last season),” Stockton said. “This year with more strength, a year of growth and more experience we’re looking to be more competitive.”

Last year’s squad had no seniors and only two juniors.

One of those juniors, Jaci Sant, led the team by averaging a double/double. Along with junior post player D’Shawn Pettigrew, Sant should use sound moves near the basket and rebounding skills to help the Lady Coyotes get past the close losses that plagued them a year ago.

“Our main goal this year is to work hard and play as a team,” guard Kassandra Clark said.

Clark feels the team’s defense is their best asset, and noted that if the Lady Coyotes can improve on teamwork the close losses a year ago may go the other way this season.

Stockton, who lauded the team’s quickness, believes Dora’s district — which includes Floyd and Melrose among others — is the toughest in the state.

“If you can finish one, two in the district, you have excellent chance of getting out of regionals and going to state,” Stockton said.

Along with more experience, this year’s squad plans on being more aggressive, attacking the basket and challenging other teams with full and half-court press schemes.

“We’re going to use our speed and our quickness, we’re going to put the ball on the floor, and we’re going to drive and we’re going to cut,” Stockton added.

Unlike last season, Stockton said the team isn’t going to get bogged down on perfecting set plays. Rather, the Lady Coyotes are going try to become more apt at playing basketball.