Tigers energized by youth movement
Freshmen bring excitement back to Hollinger’s squad
Many coaches will play freshmen only as a last resort, but St. Agnes head girls basketball coach Jeff Hollinger is an exception.
In fact, Hollinger is counting on ninth-graders to power the program’s resurgence after a rare losing season (1521) for the Tigers.
“The freshmen aren’t fighting any negative impressions of last season. It’s all brand new to them,” Hollinger said. “They are really getting after it and pushing our seniors to play and work harder.”
The rookies – Madison Lucas, Emily Nelson and twins Katie and Kelly Dickerson – have already made an impression on Hollinger and their teammates.
St. Agnes debuted at No. 20 in the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches’ large private school rankings. But, if the youngsters continue to mature, the Tigers will finish much higher.
Hollinger has been pleased with his squad’s start. After knocking off No. 12 Second Baptist 4832 in the season opener, St. Agnes won three of five games at Houston Christian’s Mustang Classic, including a 42-35 victory over Pasadena Memorial in the Silver Bracket consolation finals.
“We went 2-1 in our pool and played Lutheran North tough. They’re No. 2 in the state for small private schools,” Hollinger said. “Obviously, there are some areas where we can get better, but we competed well.”
While the freshmen have generated plenty of attention, St. Agnes’ best player is senior Lauren O’Connell, a 5-foot-9 shooting guard. O’Connell is the leading scorer at 17 points per game, just off last season’s average.
“Lauren is one of our captains,” Hollinger said. “She came to St. Agnes after her freshman and sophomore seasons at Clear Falls and has been a wonderful addition. She’s a pure shooter.”
The only other returning starter is senior Analisa Camacho, a 5-11 power forward. Camacho turned in her finest performance against Pasadena Memorial, racking up 10 points and 11 rebounds.
“Analisa started off and on last season, but she’s really improved,” Hollinger said. “She’s been bothered by shin splints. Hopefully, we can get her healthy soon.”
Senior Beth Hawkins, a 6-0 post, has solidified her spot in the starting five after delivering 13 points and nine boards in her final game at Houston Christian’s tournament.
“The key for Beth is to play consistently,” Hollinger said. “If she can maintain that level, she will really help the team.”
Two of the four freshmen are in the starting line-up. The 5-9 Lucas is the point guard, while the 5-7 Nelson is another shooting guard.
Both have had their moments for the Tigers. Lucas put up 11 points, four assists and four steals against Lutheran North. Nelson tallied a season-high 11 points against Second Baptist and hit two 3-pointers and finished with eight points against Lutheran North.
Next up for St. Agnes is a road game at Northland Christian at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20.