The girls varsity basketball team has opened their season with a bang. Their first two games of the season were great wins. Their first game on Nov. 29 was a 48-25 victory at home against Great Neck South. Some notable point scorers were junior Violet Ortenzi and sophomores Alexa Goldstein and Sophie Rivera. Port led in each quarter with Great Neck South trailing quite behind until the Vikings earned their deserved victory.
The second game, which took place on Dec. 1, was another home win, this time against Roslyn. The final score was 44-38, with Ortenzi and Rivera topping the score sheet again, along with sophomores Addison Ahmuty and Julia Spielman.
Some key players to look out for are senior captain Maggie Cassidy, junior captain Ortenzi, and sophomore Rivera, who each had impressive seasons last year and are continuing to shine.
Last season, Cassidy averaged six points per game, totaling 27 field goals and sixteen free throws, so she has high expectations for the upcoming season.
Ortenzi led in points with 9.6 per game, 78 field goals, and 42 free throws. This year she’s currently sixteenth in points per game in Nassau County. She is entering her fourth season with the team, and she has assumed the leadership role of a captain.
Finally, Rivera scored 5.2 points per game, 26 field goals, and fifteen free throws last season. It’s now her second season, and she’s sure to shine on the court.
Last season was predominantly successful and the girls had a 12-9 record. Sadly, their playoff run was cut short in the first round. However, this hasn’t lowered their confidence in making it further this year. They are still determined to win as much as possible.
“Last season was excellent. We had a lot of young girls that have come back this year, so we think we’ll be even better this year,” said Head Coach Mr. Rob Weingard.
The combined new and returning talent is sure to combine into a great season. The team’s chemistry is unmatched, and the captain’s leadership combined with the few underclassmen’s eagerness will form a great season.
“The entire team has a winning mindset. We’ve been working so hard so far and we’re confident we’ll make it far this season,” said freshman Gabriella Fuschetto.
One key home game to look forward to in the upcoming months include Locust Valley right before winter break on Dec. 22 at 7 p.m. Last season, the girls triumphed over them with a 31-22 win.
Also, the senior game is on Jan. 29 at 6:45 p.m. against Oceanside, whom Port destroyed last year 67-32, so the team is confident they can do it again. Seniors Cassidy, Sienna Cirrincione, Nina Diaso, and Abby Greenblatt will each be celebrated. Another game you won’t want to miss is on Feb. 10 at 6:45 p.m. against Massapequa. Last season, the girls lost to them, so extra effort will be put in to finally beat them.
“This season, the goal is to win at least 15 games. We want to try and get to the final four county championships. It’s a big goal,” said Coach Weingard.
The Nassau County AAA Championship last season was held at Farmingdale State College, where Syosset defeated Baldwin 62-53. Port believes they have the talent and chemistry to make it there this season.
The Vikings have been preparing extensively during practice and bonding to get into a flow as a team. They are focused on creating smooth plays that are sure to get past any team’s defense. Forwards such as Greenblatt, Ortenzi, and Goldstein will help to lead the Vikings to victory, focusing on execution of moving the ball for the best shot on offensive plays. They will enhance the speed of the game and seek opportunities for gaining points.
Essential guards to look out for are Cassidy and Cirrincione, as well as Rivera. They’ll stand out with extraordinary understanding of the game and take steps to make plays in the best interest of the game. Dictating the pace of the game is essential. The quick and aggressive transitions in the game are key to turning the game around when in need.