With nine returning players, five of who are starters, the Roanoke Valley Christian School girls basketball team is looking to return to the VACA state finals in the 2011-12 season.

"We have high expectations as a team that returns nine, including all starters,” said head coach Bert Galop. “This team was district and regional champions in the VACA and made it to the state final before losing by four.”

Suiting up for the Eagles are Elizabeth Jones (Sr, 5-9, SG/PG), Amanda Puckett (Sr, 5-6, PG/SG), Cara Griffith (Jr, 5-2, G), Abby Johnson (Sr, 5-9, PF), Lexi Hart (Jr, 5-10, PF/C), Brittany Galop (So, 5-8, G/F), Lindsey Barton (Jr, 5-6, PF), Emily Weaver (Sr, 5-6, G/PG), Bonnie Powers (Jr, 5-11, PF/C), Sarah Anderson (Sr, 5-7, SF) and Hope Hasenbeck (Sr, 5-11, C/PF).

When asked about top players to make an impact this season, Galop replied, “We are older and wiser this year and hope that maturity will make a difference. Brand new players are Griffith, who is a fierce defender and Hart, who has great athletic ability. It will be interesting to see how they adjust to the varsity game.

“Our strengths include experience. This team has been together for some time now and with a nucleus of seniors, they should have a very successful season,” said Galop. “As for our weaknesses, would be how we adjust and grow as a team. Although everyone is more experienced and has grown, the blending of personnel and how to use them is a big challenge for the coaches.”

The Eagles see their top game of the season as being the Piedmont Classic, which is sponsored by Piedmont Baptist College in Winston-Salem, NC. This tournament gives RVCS a chance to compete against schools in NC and is always a great test for the team.

“The key to this season is how we blend as a team. How each person learns and accepts their role. Our success will be a direct result of how we respond to challenges as a team, not individuals,” added Galop.