Frazier girls have new coach, new outlook
Frazier's Lauren Somers is set to throw in the ball as head coach Shara Zupanc calls out the play.
Frazier senior Megan Manack looks for an opening to pass.
John F. Brothers/HeraldStandard.com
Frazier girls coach Shara Zupanc.
Alexis Livingstone looks to moves the ball up court.
Hoping to (no pun intended) rebound from a 1-21, 0-12 record a year ago, Frazier is turning to former Belle Vernon assistant Shara Zupanc to lead the Lady Commodores to the promised land of a postseason playoff berth, where Frazier has not appeared in five seasons. Frazier’s last section crown came in 1974.
With all of two seniors and one junior, Zupanc is looking at a roster loaded with youth — seven sophomores and five freshmen — and its companion, inexperience. Nevertheless, despite the apparent drawbacks, “at this early stage of the season, we are positive we can contend for a playoff spot,” Zupanc said. “This season will obviously be a challenge. We are learning a new system and have to grow up fast and learn how to win. We’re starting to bond as a team.”
“Growing up fast” may be an understatement, as the Lady Commodores open their Section 4-A season against perennial Class A power Monessen on the Lady Greyhounds’ floor on Dec. 15.
“This will be a learning experience for me and I’m excited about the opportunity,” said Zupanc, as she begins her first varsity head coaching job. “We have new players and we’ll be facing some new teams, but the team and staff are excited about the season.
“We appear to be strong underneath and our inside game and rebounding look solid. We have a good, focused attitude and the players are working hard to make this a successful season.”
Leading the way will be seniors Teaha Nahan and Megan Manack. Zupanc described Nahan as a committed player and defensive specialist who sets a good example for other players. Manack, a 6-0 center, is back after not playing last year.
“Megan is physical underneath and will be a presence under the basket,” Zupanc said. “She is a definite scoring threat and can box out defensively.”
Alexis Livingstone, a forward and the lone junior on the roster, will be one of the team’s leaders, noted Zupanc. Livingstone brings ball-handling skills and an inside game that should bolster the Lady Commodores’ offense.
Sophomore guards Kaley Barota and Lauren Timko will keep the offense in high gear. One of the best ball handlers on the squad, Barota, who can play point or shooting guard, will also be a factor on defense.
“Kaley understands the game and our offense and is a good decision maker,” Zupanc noted. “Lauren can run the offense and brings quickness to the floor. She will be an asset on defense.”
One of five freshmen on the roster, Hannah Kline is a feisty guard and strong on fundamentals. Zupanc expects Kline to make an offensive contribution as well.
“Starting and running the offense will present early challenges for Hannah, but with her confidence, she will be able to handle her roles,” Zupanc added.
Zupanc pointed in the direction of guard Cassidy Guiser as another freshman expected to add to Frazier’s resurgence.
“Cassidy is quick and a defensive specialist,” Zupanc noted. “Her speed will help offensively.”
Frazier hosts Bentworth on Dec. 12 to open the Lady Commodores’ exhibition season.