The Cotter girls basketball team is coming off a strong run in last year’s playoffs, and they expect to be back at the Civic Center playing in big games this March.

       On paper, the team may appear to be rebuilding for the upcoming season, having graduated team leader Paige Gernes and three other starters, but as long time head coach Pat Bowlin says, “I feel that this year’s team will have enough speed and athleticism to contend for a Three Rivers championship and be a major threat in the playoffs.”

       It’s not surprising that Bowlin has this confidence with such an athletic team coming into the season. Junior Julia Charron is the lone returning starter for the Ramblers, and the team is expecting her to be the presence in the post they need.  Charron had some of her best games at the end of last year and will hope to build off that success this season.

       Hannah Spiten is a senior with post experience and will increase her minutes and role this year.  The Cotter posts will be undersized against the league’s bigger teams and their ability to secure rebounds will be a key to watch for the team’s success.

       Freshman standout Gabby Bowlin will be expected to run the offense this year with her ability to stretch the floor in transition and shoot from the outside.  As point guard, Gabby will be expected to both distribute the ball and score.

       Junior Kelly Vaselaar is another guard with experience who can play point or two guard and is an aggressive defender.  Two other juniors, Leah Koll and Cora Arnold, will add speed and scoring to the mix.

       Sophomore Mikayla Nelton earned some varsity time in the playoffs last year and is a skilled player who will also be counted on to increase her role.

Like all Cotter teams this year, the girls squad will be facing new competition in the Three Rivers and are hoping to establish new rivalries and make their mark in the inaugural season.