The senior girls basketball team is a meaningful part of Riverside’s culture. These girls have played 26 games so far this season, only losing to one team in Canada. The team has participated in many community games this season, and even went to San Diego for a tournament over winter break. Many of the grade 12 students have signed off to universities where they will continue pursuing basketball next year, such as Jessica Parker who will be going to UFV, and Alanya Davignon who will be going to Capilano U to pursue basketball post-secondary.
The team is full of very committed and competitive members, according to Mr. Jeremy Neufeld, the head coach of the girls’ senior basketball team. “The trip to San Diego was a very good bonding trip, as the players and coaches learned a lot from each other, and learned to respect and understand each other,” said Neufeld.
“I like watching the girls play together, as they work well as a team and are fun to watch. I’m proud of the girls and how far they have come, and I look forward to see what the future holds for them,” said Neufeld.
Tessa Burton, a grade 12 at Riverside and a star player on the team, is looking forward to pursuing basketball in university. She’s been playing with Riverside for five years, starting with the Riverside junior’s team when she was in grade eight. “The team and I have been through so much together; we have had those early morning practices, and it’s really nice to know that we have a family here as we are all very close. We have had some difficulties getting along sometimes, but that’s the same with every team. We always work though these problems together, knowing that there is a bigger priority out there,” said Burton.
Burton is still looking into universities and which would be the best fit for her. “I’m definitely talking to coaches right now, and I haven’t signed anything yet, but I am going for a visit with UBCO next week, and I’m talking to a few other coaches. I know I want to go play basketball after high school for sure, but I just don’t really know where yet,” said Burton.
We wish the players a good season this year and good luck next year at university!
