While the record may not tell the full story, the 2024–25 season was one of growth, grit, and character for the Westside High School Lady Wolverines. Under the leadership of Coach Dee, the team battled adversity, embraced tough moments, and laid a strong foundation for the future.
Seniors Set the Standard
“My seniors were the heartbeat of this team,” said Coach Dee. “They exemplified togetherness, toughness, and resilience.”
These veteran leaders brought excitement, structure, and hustle to every game and practice. From double-checking equipment on travel days to leading warmups and supporting teammates through injuries, they were role models on and off the court.
Fighting Through Adversity
The Lady Wolverines faced a challenging season early on, including devastating injuries to two key players—a returning defensive standout lost to an ACL tear and the team’s point guard sidelined with a femur injury. These setbacks altered team chemistry, but Coach Dee saw a new kind of strength emerge.
“I started to see how the girls stepped up to fill roles,” she said. “They would not give up and played with integrity, even when down by 25 points. They’d fight back to within 8 or 4. That showed heart.”
Young Talent Steps Up
Perhaps the biggest surprise—and source of hope for the future—was the rise of Westside’s sophomores.
“They were asked to step up into faster, more controlled roles, and they handled every assignment I threw their way,” Coach Dee said. “It took coaching and encouragement, but they grew so much.”
Growth Through Tough Moments
Navigating pressure, injuries, and difficult losses became teachable moments.
“In the beginning, they didn’t handle losing well,” Dee recalled. “But I coached them through it, helping them understand that one vacant spot means another player has a chance to make an impact.”
Looking Ahead
The future looks bright. Coach Dee is especially excited about the upcoming season as the current juniors, who entered the program with her during her first year as head coach, prepare to take the reins as seniors.
“I’ve seen their journey from the start,” she said. “Now it’s time to lead. I can’t wait to see how they grow.”
Offseason Goals
The focus for the offseason is clear: development.
“We’re going back to the basics—footwork, structure, fundamentals. I want to enhance their play with a strong foundation that will carry them forward.”
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