Nov. 28, 2012 — When the West Carter Lady Comets began the 2012-13 season Monday night, they began a new era in hopes to return the program to where it has been before.
Bart Stevens was hired at the end of April and is looking to move the program forward.
“This is a new deal,” Stevens said. “We’re trying to establish a winning tradition again. This is a program rich in tradition and we’re working real hard to bring that back.”
The Lady Comets were 7-20 last year and lost in the first round of the 62nd District Tournament. But Stevens said his team has learned a lot from this loss and has the experience to turn it around this year.
West has three returning starters this year, including Brooke Callihan, who averaged 11.9 points and 3.7 rebounds a year ago. Stevens said she’s excited about this season.
"As a team, we plan to work hard and control the tempo of the game by running more offensive sets than usual,” Callihan said. “We plan to hustle on defense and score as many easy points as possible. Our scoring ability is progressing as a team, but it's not quite the level we need to it be right now.”
“Brooke is one of the better players in the area,” Stevens said. “She can play anywhere I need her to. She’s a tremendously hard worker. A gym rat you might say.”
Also providing senior leadership for the Lady Comets are Megan Centers, Chelsea Ziegler and Mikaela Buckler. Stevens expects to all contribute a lot this season. With the combination of several sophomores and freshmen, Stevens knows the learning curve will be sharp.
“We’re kind of young,” Stevens said. “We’ve got some seniors but Callihan has the most experience. We’re making progress.”
West Carter doesn’t believe this is another rebuilding season, they know they have the tools to compete. With the way Stevens wants this team to run, the Lady Comets look to wear out opponents on both ends of the floor.
It’s been 12 years since West Carter won the State Championship and cut the nets down in Bowling Green. Stevens’ expectations are high and he said they should be.
“That’s in the back of every coach and every player’s mind,” Stevens said. “That’s why we play basketball in the state of Kentucky, to play in the state tournament.”
The Lady Comets took to the road last night as they started their season with a loss to 15th Region opponent Powell County, 71-47, after the Lady Pirates went on a 24-6 fourth quarter run.
Be sure to stick with the Journal-Times as we follow Stevens and the Lady Comets as they take to the road of recovery this season.
