by Declan O’Malley
Sounder contributor
Orcas Island High School’s basketball teams saw their seasons end in the postseason last week after a busy slate of games.
The girls’ basketball team began their postseason on Feb. 15 with a tough road loss to La Conner, falling 58-17. Three days later, on Feb. 18, they played Auburn Adventist at home and secured a solid 47-26 victory.
After the game, Vikings Head Coach Haley Cruz Winchell spoke about the team’s resilience after losing one of its leaders to injury.
“We have been having to adjust a lot with the loss of Charlotte [Winter Lamphere]. She had an ankle injury last week and will be out for the season. We are reforming and still getting better all the time,” said Cruz Winchell.
Sofia Mahony Jauregui led Orcas Island with 20 points against Auburn while Ava Ashcraft led in total rebounds, even though she fouled out in the third quarter. The team posted 16 total assists in a well-rounded performance.
On Feb. 20, the Vikings defeated Coupeville at home 51-38. However, on Feb. 22, they traveled back to La Conner, where the first half ended with Orcas trailing 16-15. The Vikings lost the rematch with a final score of 47-23, and Ashcraft led the team with 9 points.
“We ended the season having learned a lot individually and collectively. It was a winning season overall and a great experience with a hard-working, positive group of girls. We are now making plans for offseason training,” said Cruz Winchell.
Added OIHS Athletic Director Paul Steimel, “The Orcas girls basketball team has made tremendous progress this year, surprisingly many teams throughout the season. Credit needs to be given to the leadership from their dedicated coaching staff and the hard work on the court each day from these athletes.”
The boys’ team faced La Conner on Feb. 13 for its first postseason game but suffered a tough defeat, losing 74-48. On Feb. 15, they bounced back at home with a dominant 86-35 victory over Summit Atlas. On Feb. 18, they traveled to Coupeville but were defeated by the Wolves, 57-40.
After the game, Head Coach Ed Lago reflected on the season.
“You wouldn’t know we were an under .500 team. The boys practiced like winners every single day! There was no giving up on this team,” Lago said after the game. “This season had its fair share of roller-coaster moments, and it did not go as we wanted. On paper, we underachieved. But to those involved, we knew we were on the cusp of breaking through; unfortunately, we ran out of time.”
Lago pointed to some of the team’s big wins, including victories against Blaine High School and Sound Christian, as signs of their potential.
“Those wins prove that this team was capable of great things,” said Lago. “We lost a lot of games by less than three points and some by last-second heartbreakers!”
Coach Lago expressed gratitude to various individuals and groups for their support during the season. He also thanked the players for their effort and trust, the coaches for their time and dedication and the AD and Principal for their support. Appreciation is also given to those who helped with the gym facilities, transportation, concessions and the Booster Club. The Orcas Island community is thanked for attending games, and the families are acknowledged for their trust and for allowing their sons to thrive under the guidance of the coaches.
