New Lady Eagles coach expects rebuilding season

We have a chance to fight through our youth and be knocking on the door of a regional tournament birth.”

TREY LYNCH CONWAY CHRISTIAN LADY EAGLES COACH

In his first season, Conway Christian head coach Trey Lynch is staring down the barrel of a rebuilding season after losing four starters and the sixth man off of last year’s team, in addition to learning a new system. “That said, we have a chance to fight through our youth and be knocking on the door of a regional-tournament birth come season’s end,” Lynch said. “We have a tough nonconference schedule that will, hopefully, prepare us for our league play after Christmas. “If we can show continual growth on the offensive end, I feel that our ability to defend will give us the chance to compete with most teams in our conference.” Junior McKenna Caught is the only returner with significant senior high experience, the coach said. She was the third-leading scorer last season, but her role will take a big step forward this season, as she will be a focal point to the Lady Eagles’ offensive attack, he said. “Sophomore forward Sophie Fulgham will also be key to the offense,” Lynch said. “She has a balanced inside-outside game with a good midrange jump shot and can be dangerous off the dribble.” Lynch said sophomore forward Emily Dather will be another who is expected to log nearly 30 minutes per game. He said Dather is a sneaky good rebounder and is very athletic. “On most nights, she will draw the assignment of guarding our opponent’s best scorer,” Lynch said. “Sophomore guard Brady Callaway will be asked to provide a perimeter threat and handle the ball. “Sophomore forward Jennifer Noel will be another inside-outside threat who adds length at the boards.” He said senior guard Abby Austin will provide high energy and solid perimeter defense, while junior forward Marlie Moix is a steady midrange jumper. “The new conference gives us a shot to return to the regional tournament,” Lynch said. “We need McKenna to accept her leadership role and for the sophomores to grow up quickly.” He said Quitman will once again be the favorite to win the conference. “They will be expected to be on a level above the rest of the league,” he said. “After that, the conference could be wide open. “Des Arc returns the core of last year’s squad and should be expected to make a big jump forward. Pangburn lost a bunch of last year’s team, but based on their great tradition, they will be highly competitive again.”