As the Union County Bravettes face a new basketball season, they’re poised to make their mark with heart and determination. In fact, head coach Cory Coble says this group may be “the most tenacious, hard-working group” he’s ever coached.
The Bravettes are coming off a successful season last year where they finished with a record of 19-10. Although this year’s team will need to fill the shoes of last year’s talented graduating class, they’re ready for the challenge.
The Bravettes will be led by a strong core of six seniors who embody what the program is all about - a positive culture. The seniors include Annie Beaven, Jaci Curry, Cadence Coker, Paisley Eckman, Lillian Goodloe, and Ella Gough. As a whole, the group has seen somewhat limited playing time at the varsity level in the past, but Coach Coble is proud of the way they’re showing the courage to step up this year. “They have a good understanding of what the program means to them and the impact they want to make,” he shared. The Bravettes will also expect strong contributions from junior starters Dana Curry and Paige Steward.
Coach Coble will be joined on the bench by returning assistant coach Shane Smith and new assistant coach Tyler Gentry. Coble says his coaching staff shares the same philosophy that basketball is more about “the intangibles.” “It’s more about who you become off the court, not on the court,” he emphasized. So, in addition to depending on the leadership of their upperclassmen, they’ll also invest in building a strong culture among their younger players and JV team.
Coach Coble says he doesn't like to set goals based on wins and losses, but he wants this year’s team to be competitive and to enjoy it. “It’s about the process, not the product,” he highlights.
The Bravettes begin their season with an early test, as they face the Madisonville Lady Maroons, the region’s #1 ranked team in pre-season polls. The Bravettes are also looking forward to the Kentucky 2A Sectionals in December, a midseason tournament they believe they can win. They’re also confident they can make a run in the postseason, as they consider the Sixth District to be wide open this year.
Again, Coach Coble points to the team’s determination. “They’ll give everything they’ve got!” he promised. “They won’t have any regrets when it’s over.”
We wish the team all the best on an exciting, successful season! Go Bravettes!!
