Lady Bulldogs inflate win total, reach district title game

By Kyle Troutman [email protected]

The Wheaton girls basketball team took a leap forward this season, improving its win total and making a district championship appearance.

“I think the ladies had a wonderful season,” said Jessica Dermott, Wheaton girls basketball coach. “From winning only four games the previous year to have a 14-15 game season this year, and playing for a district championship — I couldn’t be more proud of this group.”

Growth throughout the season was evident Dermott said.

“Teamwork and learning to work through when something doesn’t go your way, and overcoming adversity [we all areas of improvement],” she said.

Despite roster challenges, Dermott said the team handled the season well.

“I think overall it was a successful season,” she said. “These girls have had to overcome a lot with new teammates, some not coming out and playing, so having them kind of having to start again and being junior heavy, I’m proud of how they handled it all.”

Rather than a single game, Dermott pointed to the team’s development as a defining part of the season.

“Just watching them become a team this year, the laughing even crying at times, they were a true team and we all stayed united and continued to work for our goals,” she said.

Wheaton competed without any seniors on the roster, and Dermott hopes that youth could benefit the program moving forward.

“Their work effort and willingness to not give up [is what the underclassmen will bring to next year’s team],” Dermott said.

Reaching the district championship game marked a key milestone for the program.

“The biggest goal was we wanted to make it to the championship and play for it, and they made it there, but wasn’t the outcome we wanted,” Dermott said. “But, again, I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

Looking ahead, Dermott said maintaining progress will be a priority.

“I think a main goal would be to continue to push forward and not go backwards,” she said.

Dermott added the season left a lasting impression on the program.

“I’m so proud of this group and loved every minute this season getting to watch them grow,” she said.

Wheaton fell to Exeter, 41-37, in the Class 1, District 4 championship.