CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
WARFIELD — As the Kentucky sun rises over the freshly painted Martin County Middle School gym, the Lady Cardinals basketball team embarks on a new season under second-year head coach Boo Newsome.
Newsome led the young Lady Cardinals team to a winning 2022 season. However, the end of that victorious season saw the departure of three key players – Alyssa Maynard, Ava Farnham and Jane Smith. Their exit left big shoes to fill and set the stage for the upcoming season.
“Those three were immensely talented and contributed significantly to our team’s success last year,” Newsome stated. “They will be hard to replace.”
As a silver lining, the Lady Cardinals will welcome back two talented young players from the previous season. Seventh grader Annaleigh Davis and eighth grader Desiree Gullett are returning with their skills and experience.
“Annaleigh and Desiree are very talented,” commented Newsome. “I’m excited to see what they bring to the court this year. They have bright futures ahead of them.”
The Lady Cardinals have also managed to pick up Maci Maynard, one of the top bigs in Eastern Kentucky, from Belfry Middle School. Standing tall at 6-foot-2, Maynard has already proven her worth, starting several games for Belfry High School as a seventh grader.
“Maci’s decision to join our program was a game-changer,” exclaimed Newsome. “Her height and skillset will give us an advantage on the court.”
Lexi Cline, Chloe Moore, Caylee Moore, Bri Muncy and Bailee Scott also return this year.
“These players received valuable experience last year,” said Newsome.
Newcomers Anna Hinkle, Haileigh Smith and KK Maynard have shown promise during summer play, making them exciting prospects to watch.
“All of these players have great potential,” added Newsome.
Open tryouts begin July 12 for all 6-8 grade players interested in joining the Lady Cardinals. Until July 15, the team will work out with the high school team 3:30-5:30 p.m. After July 15, they will work with the high school team 1:30-3:30 p.m. until the school year begins.
Players interested in trying out must bring a completed KHSAA physical form and a copy of their insurance card.