The Massapequa Chiefs girls varsity basketball team can’t be stopped. Going strong, undefeated, each game is nothing but success. Each player contributes a special skill that makes this team stand out to opposing teams all over Long Island. As 28 in New York State, they’re making their way to the top spot and an easy 3-pointer to the play-offs.
Opening the season with a win against East Islip with a win, 45-24, and winning every game by at least 16, they are heading in the right direction. The Chiefs have their eyes on the play-offs as the season gets closer and closer to the end; and with determination and perseverance; they will make this almost impossible for their opponents.
A roster of thirteen, with two new freshman, four sophomores, two juniors and five graduating seniors, this team is more than just players. “We’ve bonded and have become so close, we’re all like sisters to each other,” Carmela Gampero, number 40 forward, said. Team sleepovers, activities together and just hanging out together is what makes this team so close. “Honestly, basketball season is my favorite part of the year,” said Lauren Biox, a sophomore on this team.
Massapequa is known for their athletics in not only basketball but volleyball, baseball, wrestling, and so on but they never take for granted what could happen if they don’t stay on top of their game. “We’re confident but can’t expect to win, but by the way we’re working and the way the season’s gong, we have a good feeling,” Gampero said. Dedication, practice and more practice have made the Chiefs who they are and what they are known for and what Massapequa is known for. Practicing every day, six days a week for two hours, running up and down the court, nonstop drills and working hard to get what they want. “I started playing basketball when I was five years old and this has always been my way to alleviate the stress in my life or get away from the school work and home life,” Carmela said.
Freshman, Mikayla Pugliese who is on the JV team for the Massapequa Chiefs said, “I look up to the varsity older girls and it’s good to have people who you aspire to be, not only as basketball players, but looking up to them as role-models as well.” Day in and day out, both the Varsity as well as the Junior Varsity team is making a statement as Massapequa to go hard or go home. “Tougher competition makes us better, improves our skills that we need to work on and makes our game faster, cleaner, and just better when we’re versing other JV teams, ” Mikayla said.
Mrs. Roesseler, also the dean of the MHS is the head coach for the Massapequa Chiefs and has led many girls to victories and through losses too. “Our togetherness and unity as a team really pulls us together,” she says as the girl’s strongest point they have together. Each girl knows exactly where the other person is going to be on the court, helps the ball move quicker and more successful passes. “This season is going really well, we’re working really hard and doing what Massapequa Athletics does best- win.”