Hononegah girls’ basketball team bring home the prize

JEAN SEEGERS PHOTO The Herald
The 2019 Hononegah Lady Indians, gathered for a group picture in the gymnasium at HHS, following their victorious homecoming celebration on Sunday, March 3. The team defeated Benet Academy to place third in the State championship.

Hononegah girls’ basketball team bring home the prize
By Jean Seegers
REPORTER
The big yellow bus, carrying the Hononegah girls’ basketball team, rolled into the parking lot at the high school around noon, on Sunday, March 3. With sirens wailing, courtesy of Rockton Police Dept. and Fire Dept., the Lady Indians and their coaches arrived in a style befitting their accomplishments.
A large crowd of friends, teachers and fans both outside and in the gymnasium were on hand to welcome the team home.
The crowd cheered as each player stepped out of the bus. Senior Aeris Butler proudly carried the third – place trophy.
Head Coach Randy Weibel was all smiles as he and assistant coaches Matt Simpson and Jason Brunke followed the players.
Five seniors: Cali Schmitz, Aeris Butler, Hannah Malcomson, Marissa Kershner and Jordan King played their final game for Hononegah the previous evening, beating Benet Academy, 43-39, placing third in the state’s 4A Division.
The Lady Indians have racked up over 100 wins in four years, 33 wins this season and three regional titles in four years. This year was their first time at State.
Moving on to the school gymnasium, Coach Weibel spoke to the crowd about the special bond among the girls on the team, especially between the seniors. He said he couldn’t be more proud of the team and what they have accomplished.
“My teammates are my best friends,” Cali Schmitz said. The six- foot senior almost didn’t play this year. She eventually changed her mind because of her close relationship with her fellow players. Schmidt scored 10 points and 9 rebounds in the game against Benet Academy.
Jordan King will be going on to play basketball for Marquette University in Milwaukee in the fall. King is the All-time NIC-10 scoring leader and earned AP All-State First Team this year.