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By MIKE MATHISON
STEUBENVILLE -- Jess Looman is looking at the most experienced girls' basketball team she's coached in her three years at Steubenville Catholic Central.
The Crusaders return nine letterwinners.
"We are looking forward to having a successful season," she said.
Leading the way are five seniors -- Brittany Bertoia, Gabby Capaldi, Natalie Mastroianni, Shayna Mirabella and Samm Simmons.
Central is coming off an 11-12 season, losing to Bishop Rosecrans in Division IV sectional play. The Crusaders were 9-14 the year before.
Bertoia and Capaldi were third-team Eastern District selections.
Bertoia averaged 10.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, seven steals and seven assists a game. Capaldi averaged 10 points, five rebounds, five steals and three assists.
Mirabella and Simmons were honorable mention choices.
They are joined by juniors Grace Godich, Tia Taglione and Malvern transfer Brantley Turnage.
Turnage is 6-foot-3 with Simmons and Godich each at 5-10. Central should have a strong inside presence.
"The girls have been working hard in the offseason and are excited to see where the season can take us," Looman said.
Rounding out the roster are sophomores Emma Borden, Karmen DiBiase, Christine Dombrowski, Hayley Olesky and Julia Zatta; and freshmen Haley DiBenedetto, Carly Fayak, Anna Godich, Edy Harold, Hannah Oleziewski and Isabella Oliver.
"We will face a number of new opponents this year and are looking forward to the opportunities to grow," Looman said. "We are also looking forward to the games with some of our county rivals as well. We will continue to work hard and prepare before our first game against Indian Valley."