The Varsity Girls Basketball team faced their rivals Berkshire the past Friday (Jan. 14), outperforming the guests with a commanding 41 to 21 victory.

Despite numerous victories against Berkshire in past years, and earlier this year in a tournament, more than ever the Wildcats needed a win to get them back on track for the playoffs, after a bit of a rough start from their winter break return.

Senior captain Cristina Negron from Easthampton, Mass., was happy the team had more time to prepare the game, as the opponents were in good physical shape.

“We had more time to practice and was able to evaluate what we need to work on,” Cris said. “They proved to be very athletic and relentless.” Cristina noted the team’s success in “creat[ing] many scoring opportunities for our post players and open[ing] up the perimeter for our shooting guards.”

Twin sister Selena Negron, power forward, was excited to have the opportunity to redeem themselves right away.

More than ever, this game needed a strong leadership on the court, and it was in this role that Cristina stood up. As leader of the group, Cris feels responsible for the achievements of the team, whether on or off the court.

Speaking prior to the Berkshire game, she said, “I try my best to motivate the girls in practices before games and make sure everyone is having fun along the way.”

“Before tonight’s game,” she added, “we will have a team dinner and meeting where I hope to speak with the girls and get there insights before heading into playing Berkshire.”

Pressure and adversities play a role in sports; they can overwhelm a team and tear it apart. It is crucial, then, to have a method to release the stress, while keeping the concentration before a game.

The Negrons explained to The Willistonian their mental approach to the game.

“I approach the game by having a positive mind and hyping up the girls so that we are excited rather than nervous,” Selena said. “Overthinking can be the biggest enemy for an athlete, so I try to do activities that keep me clam before tipoff,” Cristina added.

After going down in the first quarter, the Wildcats were able to come back thanks to a wonderful performance by number 41, 9th grader Margaret Edwards, who led the team in the first half. In the second half, the Wildcats took off, widening the gap from their opponents.

Many students enjoyed the game last Friday, in particular senior Sofia Michalski.

“I think it’s super fun to watch, especially Margaret because she shoots a lot of threes,” Sofia said. “I’m also so excited to see my little sister, Stella, already playing on the Varsity team. I’m so proud of her!”