Republic honors 2012 state champ Lady Tiger squad
Members of the 2012 Republic girls basketball state championship team, left to right: Alexis Botkin-Wolfe, assistant coach Amanda Plotner, Kayla Bartelsmeyer-Thomas, Kailey Mathis-Coiner, Alice Heinzler-Harmon, Tori Taylor, head coach Kris Flood, Micah Mansker-Haught, Brooke Dutton-Chamness, Alexis Edwards-Horton, Taylor Wells, Mercedes Doty-Epps, and assistant coach Tori Mooneyham. Team members not in attendance: Baylee Rayl, Lindsey Carlton and Sarah Kreul-Brown. (Photo by Steve Rackley - Flat Top Photos)
‘Special group’ gathers at center court 10 years later for reunion, recognition
The 2012 girls basketball team gathered for recognition of its state championship before the Lady Tigers’ final home game of the season against Ozark. Ten players and all three coaches from that season attended the celebration.
“I think it’s hard for us to believe it’s been 10 years. It was great to see everybody with their family, their spouses, and to catch up and enjoy a little time,” said Alice Heinzler.
The 2012 team came from behind in its last three games, beating Jefferson City Helias in the quarterfinals, Miller Career Academy in the semifinals, and Smithville in the Class 4 state championship game. Coach Kris Flood remembers the team as one that knew its potential and was determined to reach it fully.
“That’s a special group. They got it. You didn’t have to try to motivate them and come up with a big speech. They knew in their minds... what they were capable of doing. They (knew they) could win, and I think they had that much confidence,” Flood said.
Category:
Lawrence County Record
312 S. Hickory St.
Mt. Vernon, MO, 65712
www.lawrencecountyrecord.com
