KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
SAN BENITO — The San Benito Lady Greyhounds had a banner year in 2017, by winning a bi-district title for the first time since the 2011 season. On Tuesday, the Lady Hounds got their season off on the right foot by picking up wins against Brownsville Porter and La Feria.
“Right now we’re trying a few different things, we are to fill in our middles and working on timing and chemistry,” said San Benito coach Ruby Medina. “Some of the kids are young and don’t have too much experience so we’re getting them out there and getting some touches.”
The Lady Hounds went 9-5 in district play last season and were the third seed out of district 32-6A and will be in the mix once again this year for a playoff spot.
While it will be an uphill battle against perennial powers Brownsville Rivera and Los Fresnos, San Benito has the fire power to compete alongside the big guns. Harlingen High is another seasoned group, followed by Harlingen South who is looking to make some noise this year.
Once again, 32-6A should be one of the top districts in the valley.
“It’s going to be tough, every time we step on the court, it is going to be a challenge for us,” Medina said. “We’re going to have to fight for each win, no win will be given to us, and I told the girls our district will be the toughest, so it’s important that we prepare and stay ready.”
Seven members return from last year’s group including Alysa Naranjo, Andrea Deleon, Ariel Garcia and Sarah Garcia.
San Benito will need to replace hitters Crystal Ibarra and Kayleen Reyes who provided Media with a deadly 1-2 punch offensively. Arlene Lucero who played middle will also need to be replaced.
Sarah Garcia, who is one of the top liberos in the Valley, will get some looks at the setter position; a spot Medina feels confident about moving forward.
“This past summer she (Sarah) worked really hard at the position,” Media said. “She might not have too much experience at the position, so I’m going to see what we can do, but the girls did really well, and the chemistry is well. Last year was great, it’s a matter of putting it all together and I believe we will.”