By KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
It’s not often to see a freshman start on the varsity in any sport. It is also rare to see a freshman compete and take over games at the varsity level.
Lyford’s Damaris Bermudez is that rare breed. The freshman stepped in, and right away she made an impact on the court for the Lady ’Dogs. Bermudez got a taste of a district title as Lyford steamrolled through District 32-3A with a 15-1 record, and she even got a bi-district title under her belt.
Bermudez averaged 13.3 points, 5.2 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 2.8 steals per game. With her breakout season, Bermudez was tabbed the Valley Morning Star ALL-STAR Girls Basketball Newcomer of the Year.
“This was a great year for us, we all worked hard to get to where we are at,” Bermudez said. “At the start of the season we were struggling a little bit, we were mixing in new players, but we were able to get everything going and we made the playoffs.”
The youngster has no off days. Bermudez work began in the offseason on and off the court and worked throughout the year.
“I practice every day, in and out of school with my dad. We work all year long,” Bermudez said. “I will practice for about an hour and a half on my shot and my form after school.”
Despite the game coming at a quick pace and the competition taking it up a notch, Bermudez answered with her game. Five times Bermudez scored 20 points or more, and she scored a season-high 22 points against Santa Rosa and Progreso.
“The game was quicker for sure, playing against older girls, and a lot of them had size,” she said. “I have been playing with older girls my whole career, so it wasn’t too much of a change for me.”
Heading into her sophomore year, Bermudez is prepared to take the next step. She looks back on her freshman year as one to remember.
“Being able to go out there and play with my teammates and making the playoffs, those are some memories I have from my freshman year. Now it’s just back to work and getting ready for next season,” Bermudez said.