ND girls aim for eighth district title in a row

Notre Dame has become quite familiar with the layout of the Hearnes Center in Columbia, Mo., over the past few seasons.

The Bulldogs have made three straight trips to the state finals with one state title to their credit. Along the way, the Bulldogs have won seven straight district titles.

"These kids being able to get on that floor and play, there is no experience like that," Notre Dame coach Jerry Grim said.

But the makeup of Notre Dame's team has changed since its run began. The Bulldogs lost Ashley Millham, their all-time leading scorer and the only one who played significant time on all three teams.

"We lost some good kids the last couple of years," Grim said. "Hopefully these kids can keep up the tradition of winning."

But with starters Sommer McCauley and Sierra Ellis back from last year's runner-up squad, along with post player Katie Palmer, the Bulldogs could be back in the mix for their eighth straight district title.

McCauley and Ellis combined to average about 20 points.

"We look for a lot from her, but its not all on her," Grim said.

Notre Dame has a group of six seniors and five juniors who will try to keep the Bulldogs' state title appearance streak alive. Along with McCauley, Ellis and Palmer, Notre Dame will look for contributions from seniors Rachel Wright, Laura Weissmueller and Amanda Dirnberger.

Juniors who could see extended playing time include Alana Weissmueller, Ali Martin, Amber Karnes and Amanda Essner.

Even after losing one of the top players in Notre Dame history, the Bulldogs again expect to contend for a state title. With five title appearances since 1995, Notre Dame's players have become accustomed to winning.

"That's kind of contagious," Grim said. "They know what it takes to get there."

No matter who's in the lineup, Grim says opponents can expect to see a fit team ready to press. Notre Dame uses its defense to cause turnovers and wear down opponents.

Coming into his 22nd season, Grim still expects the same hard-working attitude from his players as in years past.

"The kids are working hard, and any time you have that good things happen," Grim said.