Glenbard South Girls Basketball: Sustained Excellence and a Bright Future Under Coach Eric Daca
The 2025 girls' basketball season at Glenbard South High School was nothing short of remarkable. Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Eric Daca, the Raiders once again showcased their dominance on the court, capping off a season that reinforced their status as a regional powerhouse and set the stage for continued success in the years to come.
With an impressive 26-4 record, a third consecutive conference championship, and a second consecutive regional title, Glenbard South demonstrated both consistency and growth despite facing tough competition. Though their journey ended sooner than hoped in the sectional semifinal, the season was filled with milestones, development, and a strong sense of team culture.
Key Contributors: The Cornerstones of Success
Every great team needs players who step up when it counts, and for the Raiders this season, that player was Brooklynn Moore. A four-year starter and the heart of the Glenbard South squad, Moore’s resume speaks volumes. She was a unanimous all-conference selection for all four years, a rare feat, and this season she reached a career milestone few achieve—scoring 1,000 points and grabbing 1,000 rebounds. Averaging 13 points and 8 rebounds per game, her impact was felt both offensively and defensively.
“Brooklynn is the ultimate competitor,” Coach Daca remarked. “She has been a rock for our program. Her consistency, leadership, and performance set the tone for the entire team.”
But Glenbard South’s success was not built on one player alone. The team’s depth and balance were critical to their achievements. Rising stars like Kaitlin Erickson, a sophomore who started every game, developed into a vital piece of the Raiders’ rotation. Her growth over the season into an integral contributor gave the team fresh energy and reliability.
Another player who made a significant impact was Callie Hardtke, who carved out a role as one of the team’s primary defensive stoppers. Her emergence as a starter and her ability to lock down opponents on defense brought a new dimension to the Raiders’ game.
Season Highlights: Consistency and Confidence
From the very beginning, Glenbard South showed they were a team to be reckoned with. Their 26-4 overall record was a testament to their consistency throughout the season, but more importantly, they captured the conference championship for the third straight year. This level of sustained success is rare and speaks to the culture Coach Daca and his staff have fostered.
Adding to their trophy case, the Raiders also secured their second consecutive regional championship, continuing to build momentum in the postseason.
A standout moment that gave the team a boost of confidence came during the holiday tournament, where Glenbard South finished second overall. Competing against schools much larger in size, the Raiders’ ability to hold their own—and then some—was a defining point for the team.
“Seeing our success against some of the bigger schools in that tournament really showed us that we belong on that stage,” said Coach Daca. “It gave the team a huge confidence boost.”
Growth and Development: Building for Tomorrow
While the team’s veterans continued to perform at a high level, the season also showcased the development of younger players stepping into bigger roles. Sophomore Kaitlin Erickson’s growth into a reliable starter was a bright spot, as was Callie Hardtke’s evolution into a defensive force. Their progress underlined the program’s commitment to developing talent internally, ensuring that the Raiders remain competitive for years to come.
Coach Daca noted, “Our young players really stepped up, and that growth was crucial. We’re proud of the way they’ve taken on responsibilities and contributed.”
Handling Adversity: Mental Toughness on Display
In any season, adversity comes in many forms—injuries, tough losses, or pressure-packed games. The Raiders, with a core group of players who have been together for several years, showed resilience throughout.
“The team played with confidence and maturity,” said Coach Daca. “Even when we hit rough patches or tough losses, they kept working hard and prepared to get better for the next challenge.”
This mental toughness was a hallmark of the season, contributing to the team’s ability to rebound quickly and maintain focus on their goals.
Senior Leadership: Setting the Standard
This year’s senior class brought an invaluable blend of intensity, leadership, and positivity to the program. They led by example both in practice and on game nights, helping set the tone for the entire roster.
“While the seniors may not have always been the loudest voices, their work ethic and attitude spoke volumes,” Coach Daca explained. “The younger players looked up to them, and that leadership helped us stay grounded and focused throughout the season.”
Looking Ahead: Experience and Potential
With many players returning for their third or fourth varsity season, the Raiders are poised to build on this season’s success. The team’s senior-heavy roster for next year means experience will be abundant, providing a steadying influence and leadership core.
“We have a great group coming back,” said Coach Daca. “There’s a lot of experience, which will be a huge advantage. If we continue to develop our skills and work hard this offseason, I’m confident we’ll take another big step forward.”
Offseason Focus: Skill Development and Team Cohesion
As the Raiders look to the future, Coach Daca emphasized the importance of the offseason in maximizing their potential.
“This offseason, our focus will be on developing individual skills that complement each other,” he said. “We want to make sure everyone is improving in a way that benefits the team as a whole. That way, when we hit the court next season, we’ll be able to play with more cohesion and effectiveness.”
By honing skills and deepening the understanding of team dynamics, Glenbard South aims to translate offseason efforts into in-season success.
Where to Follow the Raiders
For fans and supporters eager to track Glenbard South’s progress, all official records and statistics from the season are available on MaxPreps, allowing followers to stay connected with the team’s journey and see individual and team performances in detail.
Conclusion: A Season of Excellence and Promise
The 2025 Glenbard South girls basketball team demonstrated the qualities that define a championship program: leadership, resilience, skill, and heart. Guided by Coach Eric Daca, the Raiders not only secured a string of impressive achievements but also created a foundation for sustained excellence.
As the program looks ahead, the combination of seasoned veterans, rising young talent, and a coaching staff committed to growth bodes well for continued success.
With the lessons learned and the confidence gained from this season, Glenbard South is ready to aim even higher in the coming years.
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