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By SETH STASKEY
ST. CLAIRSVILLE -- The St. Clairsville girls' basketball team turned a few heads when it went on a late-season terror to reach the OVAC Class 4A championship game.
Though the Red Devils fell in that game to Union Local and eventually lost in the opening round of the Division II sectional, Coach Stacey Agnew had a lot of reasons to be encouraged.
First and foremost, his team showed resolve to bounce back from a slow start and every player -- except for Sydney Freeman -- who contributed in that surge is back as the new season commences.
"We're definitely hoping to build on that late-season success," Agnew said. "We need to get off to a better start than we did. We found ourselves battling back a lot last year, but if we're able to start winning earlier in the season, it will really help us build confidence."
The Red Devils return six lettermen and have three seniors leading the way, but Agnew realizes that's no guarantee for success. Because, in Freeman, St. C. lost its "glue girl."
"Sydney was the one who kept it all together for us," Agnew said. "She's going to be tough to replace and we may have to fill her role by committee."
With so many veteran faces back after a strong summer and preseason of work, Agnew insisted the goals remain the same.
"We want to get back in the OVAC Tournament and do something in the (Ohio) tournament," Agnew said. "I really think we're going to continue to get better as the season goes along and we'll be somewhat of a work-in-progress early in the year."
Senior Ari Reager (5-foot-8) had a strong season in 2016-17 and is looking to continue that trend.
"Ari has come a long way," Agnew said. "She's worked hard to improve her game and I think she's going to have a good season."
Senior Katie Bradshaw (5-10) is another to keep an eye on. A versatile player, she owns range to 15 feet and can still play on the interior, too.
"There was a stretch late in the season where she averaged about 15 points a game, so we're hoping she can duplicate that," Agnew said. "We need her to play well from the start (of the season)."
In the backcourt, juniors Riley Simpson (5-6) and Maria Vincenzo (5-5) return. Both had strong sophomore campaigns. Simpson is a talented defender and all-around player. Vincenzo, who has been slowed by an ankle injury this month, hit several big shots, especially from behind the 3-point line last season.
Senior Taylor Henry (6-0) is another to watch in the post. She showed some flashes last season as well. She's in search of her third letter.
Sophomores Kerri Klinkoski (5-7) and Katie Strama (5-7) are both expected to see big minutes and could filter into the starting lineup as well.
Junior Kassidy Stephens (5-7) is expected to take on a bigger role off the bench, while classmate Maddie Stran (5-9) will supply depth on the interior. Sophomores Sydnie Rice (5-4) and Brooke Reager (5-5) are also vying for increased minutes.
Sophomore Emily Vera (5-5) isn't expected to return to action until after the first of the year because of a wrist injury. Freshman Macy Malin (5-5) has shown a lot of potential in practice and could work her way into the rotation, according to her coach.
"I feel really good about this group," Agnew said. "These girls know what is expected of them and they're working hard to get to that point. Their attitudes have been great and as we continue to find our identity without Syd (Freeman), we'll continue to improve."
Agnew's coaching staff is identical to last season. Tom Sliva and Missy Gossett are working with the varsity squad.