by Merrick Parnell

The Saints kicked off a new era in their 2015-2016 season with a revamped coaching staff, led by head coach Roger Worley. Joining Worley on the bench was Michelle Bechtel, a college basketball standout while at Walla Walla University, and Troy Oneal, a season veteran and coach of the game, who has worked with many local basketball programs.

The Orcas Christian School Lady Saints ended their 2015-2016 season with a celebration of the Basketball career of Maelle Comrie, the Lady Saints lone Senior. Comrie had been a significant part of the lady Saints dynamic during the 2015-2016 Northwest 1B campaign.

“Maelle’s endurance and perseverance was what make our program happen this season. Without Maelle, we would not have a team this year,” said Athletic Director, Breezy Davis. “She and her teammates worked together to grow and push through each game they faced. She was vital to our program!”

Later that night, the Lady Saints lost to Arlington-Highland Christian, 38-37. The Saints had led Arlington-Highland for a majority of the game, but Arlington-Highland put together a stout and fierce second half comeback.

Despite the loss, Comrie was the Saint’s stand out player in the contest with 15 points. 9 of those were 3-pointers. Juniors, Emily Toombs and Caitlin Fowler, had four each. While Alaena Comrie finished with two to round out the Saints score line. In the previous game, the Saints lost a close game to the Lummi Nation 29-21.

Despite their record, the Lady Saints had a lot to be proud of. They played almost their entireseason with no substitutions, and were competitive in many of their games. Day in and day out, the Lady Saints came to work. They showed, heart, hustle and determination.  This Lady Saints team has paved the way of a new era of Orcas Christian basketball players that refuse to give up or give in.

“Each game we endeavored to improve our play. Never giving up was what we did well,” said Worley. “Even when we had to play parts of a game with four players, no one complained.”