The Strathmore High School varsity team this season is led by Coach Richard Miranda, an experienced and dedicated leader who has made it his goal to help the team improve step by step. According to Coach Miranda, it will take playing as one unit in order to be successful. The team is made up of top returners from last season, including Alexis Ibarra Sanchez, Jennifer Gonzalez, and Alyssa Gonzalez Dayanara Topete. Each of these players have invaluable qualities which will make a difference in the team's progress this season. New players have also joined the roster this year, such as Pearl Johnson, who is sure to make an immediate impact on the team. What does Mirander look for in captains? He expects his leaders to lead by example. Currently, these roles are being contested by Alexis Ibarra Sanchez, Jennifer Gonzalez, and Alyssa Gonzalez. Coach Miranda was asked what his plan was for developing team chemistry this season. He explained that he would ensure that his players are comfortable playing with each other and that they should always take the opportunity to help each other out. Additionally, Coach Miranda aims to keep his players motivated through the use of "rings", as they missed out on it last year and it's still a sore subject. Another big challenge Coach Miranda is faced with this season is consistency. He believes that in order to make real progress this year, his team needs to be a consistent unit. This season's schedule includes some difficult games, such as against the defending D5 champions Reedley, Kerman, Mission Oak, Lindsay (Rival), Corcoran, Farmersville and the Arvin Tournament. When asked if his coaching style has changed this season, Coach Miranda replied that it has become less vocal with the same level of expectations. He understands the importance of the mental aspect of the game and he works to make sure his players remain motivated and that they always have a goal to reach. Coach Miranda has also made some changes to the team's training and conditioning program. He has stressed the importance of playing close to 60 games in the spring and summer, which will help the team build on its current strengths and improve its weaknesses. His philosophy is simple: if it were easy, then everybody could do it. This was the approach he took when implementing new strategies and plays for this season. He hopes to allow more subs to play for more minutes, which will give the team more opportunities to improve overall. Lastly, communication is of utmost importance for the team's success. With these two elements combined, the team's mental toughness will be a great asset for them in close games. Coach Miranda is also dedicated to helping his players balance academics and sports. Even though his team has many challenges this season, he wants to ensure that his players enjoy their high school experience and make the most of the time they have on the court. His message to the fans and supporters of Strathmore High this season is simple; he hopes they can all cheer for a successful year ahead.