For the Lady Tigers seniors, the win over East Hall last Tuesday was bittersweet; as it would be the last time they would dress out as Tigers on their home court.
While their senior careers would not be officially recognized until after their contest with East Hall, the 2017-2018 varsity girls squad fought to make sure they left behind a winning legacy.
After losing to East Hall in a close game earlier this season, the Lady Tigers knew the victory was not assured. This made it all the more satisfying when they were able to pull off a convincing 68-53 win over the Lady Vikings Jan. 30.
Though Dawson County put on quite the show, East Hall didn't lose the game without putting up a struggle first. The Lady Vikings rallied to score 22 points in the second half, which forced the Lady Tigers to fight to maintain their lead; and fight they did. Putting up 36 points in the second half and containing threats like Carly Winters, a division I prospect for East Hall, the Lady Tigers were able to go out on top in an important regional game.
After securing the victory over the Vikings last week, the Tigers traveled to Union County to take on the Panthers once more. While the Lady Tigers dominated the game from tip off, they went on to score 38 points in the second half to seal the deal. Coming home with a 70-38 regional win under their belt, the Lady Tigers ended their regular season with a 14-10 record.
Lady Tiger Kaylee Sticker had a 25 point game against Union County Friday night. Notable performances from other players included Anna Lowe, scoring 10 points, and Calli Watson with 6.
All in all, 11 players for the Tigers had the opportunity to score in their final regular season match -up. Kati Brady, Chloe Bennett, Sophia D'Oliveira, Cadey Ayers, Avery Young, Madison Anglin and Abi Chatham were all able to contribute to the winning total. Even Marlie Townley, a player benched all year with a knee injury, was able to make her debut for the season.
"I'm really proud of the girls for getting after it the way they did tonight," said Head Coach Steve Sweat on Friday night's victory.
In an eventful last week of the regular season, the senior Varsity girls and Varsity boys were also able to participate in the "Cutting of the Net" ceremony following the Jan. 30 game against East Hall.
The event has been a tradition since 1997. At the ceremony, Sweat said that he wanted to thank the seniors for their leadership and their good hearts. Varsity Head Coach Chad Pittman spoke of the great character of the seniors on the boys team, saying "they are going to make wonderful husbands and fathers one day."
Fourth seed in the region tournament, the girls will play Union County at 4:30 p.m. today.
Win or lose, Dawson will host the semifinals/finals on Friday or Saturday. Games are from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday the 3rd place games will be at 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The championship game will be at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.