With only eight players, as opposed to the standard 12, the team confronts many challenges, even as it moves down from the more competitive Mission League to the Sunshine League. The team’s record is 5-8 overall and 2-2 in league play.

The few girls on the team are small in height, putting them at an automatic disadvantage when playing against other teams.

Despite these challenges, coach Chris Rodgers and the players said they are looking forward to the upcoming season.

While Rodgers said he does not believe the team’s small numbers are an insurmountable disadvantage, he said each player has a duty to the team to be prepared for each game and to play offense and defense. To encourage this preparedness, the team has been meeting before school and during free periods in order to practice as much as possible before each game.

Shooting guard Sophie Lee ’18 described challenge.

“We don’t have as many ‘bigs’-really tall girls. Since a lot of other teams have these really tall girls, it is hard for us when rebounding and getting the ball,” Lee said.

With a combination of extra practices and their continued determination, Lee said she hopes to turn the challenges they face into advantages.

“Practice is hard, but good, because we get more playing time, and I always enjoy playing with my team. I also think we’re a lot more serious and motivated to do well this year,” Lee said.

Rodgers elaborated on Lee’s perspective.

“[The players] take pride in not letting the player next to them down and that has elevated our practices and our performance,” Rodgers said.