By Sayellor Taylor

Girls basketball

   Truth, Beauty, Goodness and most importantly community are displayed on and off the court by the members of Tempe Prep’s high school girls basketball. 

   Sophomore Autumn Evdokimo says that the season was “challenging, yet growth-inducing for everyone on the team.” One highlight is the team’s game on Jan. 20 where the girls had their second win of the season, 34-15 in a home game against Sequoia Pathway Academy. Notably, freshman Alyssa Grapevine scored her first basket of the season. 

   This year, the Lady Knights basketball team has been pushing themselves in both games and practices. Individually, players are able to strengthen themselves physically and mentally, specifically by improving their cooperation and teamwork. 

   “It’s amazing to see everyone’s progress on the court and the bond we keep with each other off it,” says Autumn. 

   While some athletes are returning players and some are new to basketball, each member has grown to play their personal best. The team not only  improved its performance, but made several friendships. Connection across grades is a key element of the Tempe Prep community and basketball is one of the many sports in which these bonds are born. Autumn says the team“piece[d] ourselves together into a perfect puzzle and now the door is open for an amazing finish to the season.”

Girls soccer

  Similarly, senior Hannah Chadwick, captain of the girls soccer team, noticed a huge improvement in performance through team bonding. 

   “This year has progressed well,” she said. “Starting out we had few experienced players, so our main goal was to build team chemistry and learn how to play as a team on the field. At the end of the season every girl’s touches, passes, and communication with one another has improved tremendously so I’m really proud of them all.” 

  Hannah has been a veteran  member of the middle school and high school girls soccer teams, which earned her the title of captain. This is not a small position: Hannah must lead warm ups, coach players and demonstrate drills as well as “work to connect and inspire the team during practices and games.” 

  Through their team chemistry and leadership, the athletes have made lasting friendships. 

   “One of the best parts of soccer is always the bond between the team,” Hannah said. “We have all made incredibly meaningful and impactful friendships I will always cherish.” The tight bond on the girls soccer team this year has been displayed on and off the field, especially during Senior Night, where Hannah says, “all of the underclassmen came together to make a perfect night for us seniors, it truly meant so much and I was so grateful for both the night and the team behind it.”