Expectations were high at the start of this year’s basketball season for the girls of Division Avenue High School. No one knew what to expect after last year’s Long Island Championship and the graduation of a few key players. Trying to replace defensive standout Kristen Costello (now at the University of Delaware) and conference scoring leader Nicolette Parmese (attending Bryn Mawr University) would prove a challenge for the Blue Dragons.
Filling in nicely for the graduated players are Nicolette McCreary and Kristen Stuart both at the forward positions. Swingman Christina Rea, shooting guard Julie Ballantyne, and point guard Taylor Malings round out this season’s starting lineup.
Returning seniors adding valuable minutes are, three-point shooting specialist Breanne Connolly and 6’3” center Janelle Marxhausen.
Newcomers from last year’s junior varsity team are Jen Addamo, Sue Ballantyne, and Amanda McDonough who have all fit in well on this year’s squad.
The experience and talent of this group has led the Lady Dragons to an undefeated preseason with a record of five wins and no losses! The preseason was capped off with a quality win over a very tough team from Uniondale High School. As the holidays end the Lady Dragons start a very competitive conference schedule with the hopes of returning to the Nassau County Playoffs.
