16 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2023
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Photos by Joe Brown / West Central Tribune
Litchfield junior Morgan Falling, 23, runs out onto the court during pre-game intros in a non-conference game against BBE on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022 at Litchfield.
Young Litchfield Dragons are optimistic Though Morgan Falling is the only returning starter, Litchfield has a lot of unproven talent BY MICHAEL LYNE West Central Tribune
LITCHFIELD — With the loss of four senior starters, the Litchfield girls basketball team is ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. The Dragons had a 14-13 overall record last season and were 7-6 record in the Wright County Conference. Litchfield, which won seven of its last 11 games, lost to New London-Spicer in the Section 3AA-North semifinals. The Wildcats advanced to the Class AA state tournament. Litchfield’s 2022-23 team graduated All-Area Third Team member Ryanna Steinhaus, Greta Hanson, Izzy Pennertz and Kylie Michels. “We have a large group of girls that will be on watch this year,” said Litchfield third-year head coach Eric Hulterstrum. “It will be a great opportunity to watch and see who will be able to step up into those roles this year.” Litchfield has six seniors this year. Morgan Falling, a guard, leads that group as the only returning starter. Falling will be joined by her senior counterparts Shelby Dengerud, Olivia Olson, Addie Lundin, Ellie Brown and Adallia Bruning. “This will be a fun year with a lot of moving parts,” Hulterstrum said. “We have a great battle within our team to
Litchfield junior Olivia Olson makes a pass on the perimeter during a nonconference game against BBE on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022 at Litchfield. compete for the roles that need to be replaced from last year.” Hulterstrum has liked the efforts he has seen from his Dragons leading up to the season and is excited to see what’s in store for his “good group of underclassmen” as well. “The girls have been working very hard to become prepared for the upcoming season,” Hulterstrum said. “It is always fun to compete in the Wright County Conference as the teams are all very strong. “We look forward to another great year of girls’ high school basketball.” Serving as Hulterstrum’s assistant coaches will be Zach Piepenburg and Joey Hyde.
