Shady Side Academy girls basketball expects ‘better outcome’

By: HSSN Staff
Sunday, November 26, 2017 | 11:05 PM

The Shady Side Academy girls basketball team finished 7-15 last season. There was reason for optimism as the Indians, after a 1-12 start, won six of their last nine games.

“Injuries took their toll,” SSA coach Amy Szlachetka said. “But the girls hung in there to finish strong.”

SSA was hit hard by graduation as it lost three starters, including its top scorer and rebounder. It returns Megan McInerney (senior, 5-foot-8, forward), Catherine Jewart (junior, 5-6, guard) and Ella Benec (junior, 5-8, forward). McInerney and Benec were starters last year, and Jewart sat out the first 13 games because of injury before claiming a starting role.

Returning letterwinners include Willis Munroe (senior, 5-6, guard), Julie Staley (senior, 5-5, guard), Emmie Lau (junior, 5-11, forward) and Cassidy Walsh (sophomore, 5-9, freshman).

Promising newcomers include Arianna Goitz (junior, 5-6, guard), Josie Szlachetka (junior, 5-9, forward), Molly Skvorak (sophomore, 5-7, forward), Luisa Frahm (sophomore, 5-4, guard) and Nyla Rozier (freshman, 5-10, forward).

“Molly and Luisa are on the soccer team in the playoffs, so I haven't really seen them on the court, but they are good athletes,” Szlachetka said.

She feels there is much reason for optimism this year.

“We have a lot of experience, and there won't be much new material for them to learn. We should have some speed and good outside shooting. I'm excited about our defensive possibilities.

“I'm concerned about our numbers. They're low for the program. My main concern is that we may not be able to play a JV schedule to develop some of our younger players.”

SSA will compete in WPIAL Section 3-3A along with Apollo-Ridge, Avonworth, Bishop Canevin, Carlynton, Seton LaSalle and Steel Valley. Szlachetka said Avonworth and Bishop Canevin will be the teams to beat in the section.

“This is a very cohesive group. They play hard for each other and are very supportive while pushing each other at the same time. I expect a much better outcome to our season this year.”

Marty Stewart is a freelance writer.