Craig looks to restore title hopes

Head coach Kevin Craig began to think he must have done something to offend the gods last season.

The Lady Seahawks basketball team returned for the 2006-07 season as the reigning District 1-3A champions. The team had the desire and belief they could repeat.

However, Craig lost four players during the regular season, mostly to knee injuries, with point guard Kendall Moore injuring her wrist in the District 1-3A semifinal game at the end of the season as South Walton finished with a record of 10-17.

With his sights on a healthier season, Craig’s summer camp is up and running with most of his injured starters back.

With zero graduates last year, Craig has all the starters back including Shereka Bramlet who missed the entire 2006-2007 season.

Besides Bramlet, Kendall Moore, Taylor Griffith and Aracely Garcia have recovered from their injuries and are looking to make up for lost time.

Tara Watson, who injured her left knee on Dec. 15, 2006, is in the gym working on her shooting touch but will not be able to work out until September.

There will be a lot of competition for the starting slots this season as several players got playing time with last season’s injuries.

Sadie Hussein, who played some post position because of the injuries, is looking good at a wing slot. Jamie Delaney looks much more comfortable in the post than last season and will battle Watson for the starting role.

Moore is getting some competition from upcoming sophomore Julie Williamson at point guard and Rachel Miller, who came on strong when Griffi th was injured, is competing for a starting slot on the wing.

South Walton’s success since Craig took over the program has brought out a huge number of players who will be fighting for spots on the varsity and junior varsity squads.

The summer camp has over 20 athletes who are gaining confidence under Craig’s tutelage.

If the Lady Seahawks can stay healthy, they could be contenders for another district title with four players returning for their senior seasons.

And, with the improved play and confidence of the underclassmen like Moore, Garcia, Hussein and Delaney, it should be a very exciting season for South Walton lady hoopster fans.