Building blocks aren’t always progressive. There’s some hiccups along the way, but for the two area schools in the Class 1A Evergreen League, they’re hopeful for some levels of progress this winter.
The Beavers have already matched last season’s win total through a week of basketball, winning in two different ways. First year head coach Kirsi Gofinch takes over for Tenino and believes it can make games competitive throughout the winter.
Chloe Grayless has taken on the role of top scorer in the two victories while Gofinch mentioned a couple eighth graders that have earned playing time. Senior Bri Asay is expected back later in the season after recovering from an injury.
Rochester will be on the younger side with eight freshmen listed on the varsity roster. Coach Keeli Rivas’ squad will lean on seniors Merecedies Dupont and shifty wing Layna Demers, a pair of multi-sport athletes.
In the season-opener, the Warriors lost to state qualifier Pe Ell 48-14. They have home-and-homes with Pe Ell and Aberdeen in the non-league schedule.
