The Pampa Lady Harvesters (3-11-1, 3-6-1) fell to West Plains and Borger over the last week, but the girls are not getting discouraged as they head into a rematch with the Lady Whitefaces at Hereford on Friday.
“The girls have been positive despite the losses,” Head Coach Brennen McGinty said. “Our mantra all season has been the numbers on a scoreboard don’t define us. Our effort defines us. They have bought into the mindset and refuse to quit. Every game is a new game.”
The Lady Harvesters tied with Hereford after a late score by the latter earlier this month. But a win can go a long way to help the Lady Harvesters, who still have their eyes set on the postseason. The Lady Harvesters currently sit at fifth in the standings, but they are not far out from fourth.
“We are currently in 5th place. Our playoff hopes are still alive,” McGinty said. “If we beat Hereford, Dumas and Perryton we will finish at worst tied for 4th. We just have to take care of business, control what we can, and hope the rest of the chips fall our way.”
This article we will spotlight Junior Bianette Ortega and Senior Jocelyn Morales, both players who don’t appear on the stat sheet often, but each serve a huge role on this
team.
McGinty said Ortega’s aggressiveness and tenacity makes up her game.
“Bibi is the most aggressive player I’ve ever coached.” McGinty said. “She is relentless and never backs down. She is determined to prove everyone wrong who doubts her.
Bianette Ortega
“During the Dumas game, I made a comment about her position doesn't promote scoring but she plays hard despite that. She proceeded to go out in the second half and score a goal on a corner kick. It was an awesome moment and I'll always cherish it.”
Morales hasn’t seen the field in District due to injury, but McGinty said she is always trying to help the younger players.
“Shes been a great leader on the sidelines, encouraging her teammates and offering advice to the younger girls,” McGinty said. “Even though it’s unfortunate she can't play, the mentorship will pay dividends down the road for our program.”
Jocelyn Morales
The Lady Harvesters will take on the Lady Whitefaces at Hereford tonight, seeking redemption for the late goal that led to the tie earlier this month.
“We've watched the Hereford film numerous times now,” McGinty said. “That's the one game of the year we let slip through our hands and it eats at the girls. Due to a red card last game, we will be playing Hereford without Yarely. So Aliyah is excited to rise to the occasion and get her first win as a goalie.”