Eighth-grader Cameron Coalter said she was upset when she heard the middle school basketball season would take place in the spring, for the first time in school history.

“At first, the whole team thought might not even have a season — including our coach,” Coalter said. “I’m glad that it wasn’t canceled because I’m ready to get back on the court. But I am nervous for this upcoming season because we lost some of our eighth graders. I do know that a lot of girls have been practicing recently so we should be prepared. But it will definitely be different overall due to COVID-19.”

The girls’ coach Derek Hamilton said he’s anxious to see how the season will turn out. He said he’s unsure of what players will return due to COVID-19 concerns.

“I’m expecting this season to be challenging,” Hamilton said. “But I’m looking forward to getting the girls’ skills up — making sure the ones that were playing last year have improved versus the ones that have just come in to learn. Hopefully my girls can reach the same level as our varsity team who are going to regionals for the first time in eight years.”

Other returning players, like eighth-grader Ashvika Maddikonda, said they like that the season has been moved to the spring.

“Now that the season was moved to the springtime, we have had more time to practice,” she said. “I’m going to be playing point guard this season so I would like to score more points for my team. I don’t think we were that good offensively last year so I’m hoping we can work on our plays and score more. I’m looking forward to a lot of team bonding this season and having fun overall.”