JV,varsity Grizzlies earn back-to-back league titles

After going 11-1 last season, the Mariposa County High School varsity girls basketball team are Southern League champs again this season.

The group went 12-0 in league as they played their last game of the regular season last week.

On Feb. 12, the team hosted Le Grand at MCHS to wrap up the season and honor their seniors during senior night.

The team won and they won big with a final score of 55-13.

“It is an anticipated result of all of the hard work and dedication these athletes put in day in and day out during the season and offseason,” said coach Joe Lewis.

“They want to be great and they understand consistent improvement will get them there.”

Not only is the program strong at the varsity level, the JV team continues to own the league at the developmental level.

“We ended our season 8-0 in league and 19-3 overall,” said coach Tammi Richards.

“They’re back-to-back undefeated league champs.”

There’s no better way to send off the seniors than with both teams undefeated and the varsity team headed to playoffs.

Seniors this season include Hailey Watson, Mia Hansen, Celina Heard and Demi Camorlinga.

“I’ve coached these four seniors since youth basketball, middle school and high school,” Lewis said.

“Demi (Camorlinga) has been a tremendous talent from the very beginning. She plays with heart, loves her teammates and has truly thrived in her role as a leader this season. I am very proud of her dedication to improving every offseason and it’s been an honor to coach her.”

Heard has been involved in several sports at MCHS.

“Celina (Heard) is the embodiment of Grizzly spirit. She gives her best in everything she does and leads others toward success,” Lewis continued.

“Celina has given us countless moments that had us on our feet cheering. Hitting threes or throwing touchdowns and she has been a joy to watch and coach.”

Watson is known as the heart and soul of the program.

“She pushes herself to the limit for her team and is exactly what every coach hopes for in a teammate and leader,” said Lewis.

“Hailey creates a supportive and encouraging environment, with endless spirit and energy. Hailey’s effort is never in question and I will always remember the word “REBOUND” for many years.”

Hansen is the only four-year varsity senior this year.

“She has made a lasting impact on our program. She is an incredible competitor, a fun teammate and a valuable leader,” Lewis explained.

“Mia has the ability to completely take over a game. Her talent and work ethic have earned her multiple All-League honors since freshman year in basketball and volleyball. I am grateful to have coached Mia for multiple seasons.”

The Grizzlies had home court advantage as they hosted the Western Sierra Collegiate Academy Wolves on Feb. 17 at MCHS for the first round of the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs.

The Wolves entered the playoffs with a season league record of 6-8 (5th place).

Results were not available at press time.