With new coach, young players, Oran sets lofty goals for season

Following a season in which the Oran girls basketball team struggled to gain victories, the Eagles are hoping a new coach and young talent can help them put away the past and compete for a district title.

With only one senior lost from last year's squad, first-year Eagles coach Larry Boshell is upbeat about his team's ability to play with everyone on their schedule.

"We're pretty quick and are going to be able to get up and down the floor," Boshell said. "We should be able to guard anyone because of our size and our quickness."

Oran has two seniors leading the way: center Amanda Eftink and guard Tori St. Cin. Beyond that, however, the Eagles are a very young team. Only one junior -- Courtney Nenniger -- is out for the squad. The rest of the roster consists of five sophomores and seven freshman.

The injury bug already has hit the Eagles, scratching forward Tiffany Glastetter and guard Holly Limbaugh from the lineup before the season has even begun.

"When these players return," Boshell said, "we can just add them to the mix and have more depth."

According to Boshell, Oran should have better shooters and defense this season.

"In our district, it's just us and Delta, and I think we can compete with them," said coach Boshell. " My goal is a conference title. Even though it seems lofty, I believe it can be done."