By Dennis Bowling

Illinois Lutheran Girls’ Basketball Coach Phil Adickes is no stranger to the game. He has been the Chargers assistant coach for the past four years and is now the head coach for Illinois Lutheran.

Last season, the Chargers did very well and broke a school record at 11-18 overall and 5-11 in the River Valley Conference. Currently, Adickes is putting the Chargers through some practices to prepare them for the upcoming season.

“To get the school record in wins is quite an accomplishment,” he said. “We want to compete and would like to make it to double digit wins again.”

Adickes will be counting on seniors Maddie Alexander – a 5’-6” guard, Emily Moultrie – a 5’-7” forward, sophomore Alissa Sanchez – a 5’-5” guard, and Kimberly Danielewicz – a 5’-8” forward.

“Maddie is hoping to gain confidence in her basketball skills,” he said. “While she has not played in three years, she does have court awareness and ability.”

“Emily has really grown in her confidence on the court,” he continued. “She is starting to get more playing time, plus made seven-of-10 free throws in practice. She also did very well at the free throw line.”

Continuing, he added, “Alissa is a very good ball handler. She is gaining confidence in her ball handling skills and will be looking to shoot the ball more. She is also a good spot up jump shooter. I just hope she can run the floor.”

“Last season, Kimberly was our most improved player. She really loves the game and can get the rebound. She also can put the ball into the basket,” the Coach remarked.

Sanchez feels the Chargers strong point will be defense, and remarked, “We will play strong defense. Kimberly is a positive player and is able to finish her shots around the basket, while Emily plays good defense. Maddie also plays with a lot of energy and is just fun to be around.”

The Chargers will open their season by playing host to Kankakee Trinity Academy on November 14, at 5:30 p.m.