Shelter Island Girls' Varsity Basketball Team Loses to East Hampton

The Shelter Island girls varsity basketball team fell to East Hampton at home on Wednesday night, 47 – 23.

Despite the loss, coach Peter Medima, and captains Stacey Clark and Kelsey McGayhey, said they are focusing on some goals for the season ahead.

The Hero: With a team-high 10 points, junior Kelsey McGayhey encouraged her teammates to pass and shoot the ball, in hopes of catching up to the Bonackers.

The Turning Point: The Indians responded to the Lady Bonackers quick agility and high scoring early on. Missing some shots in the first quarter and giving East Hampton an early advantage, Medima said, "The girls began to shake their rust off, but not until the second and third quarters." Making consecutive shots, Stephanie Vecchio scoring 4 points, followed by Mackenzie Needham scoring 4 more, but the girls still could not keep up with the early lead that East Hampton had picked up.

The Quote: Despite a loss, the Shelter Island Indians remain optimistic. "We need to keep our heads up and stay positive. I know we will succeed in the season because working together is what Shelter Island teams do best." McGayhey said. She said the girls depend on each other on and off the court.

The Bottom Line: Putting nerves and the first game of the season behind them, the girls are eager for the games ahead. Medima plans to implement a more consistent practice schedule, focusing on conditioning and decision-making skills. He said focusing on decision-making skills will allow the girls to assess situations and make successful judgments for plays during the fast paced game.

Key Stat: Despite the Bonackers having doubled Shelter Island's score, each member of the Indians contributed to their 23 points with at least a foul shot. 

Who's Next?: Shelter Island will travel off island to take on the Ross School on Dec. 16.