Westfield’s Lady Pioneers 2020-21 season was unlike any other in the team’s history. After grasping their Regional Championship title, the athletes were hungry for more. They went into Sectionals knowing teamwork would bring them success against Amherst. This proved true, with the team winning the game with only 3 points to spare.
For the first time in school history the Lady Pioneers were off to State. The close-knit community of Westfield was filled with Pioneer Pride, with signs for the team lining every street. Westfield sent their State-Bound team off with a parade through town, with the girls riding on top of a fire truck to greet the community.
Traditionally a pep-rally would have ended the sendoff for the team, but in the theme of a year like no other, a virtual pep-rally was held. Students watched live from their classrooms as they heard from the Athletic Director, Westfield Lions Club member, and coaches of the Lady Pioneers.
The Lady Pioneers were ready for the game of their lives on Friday, Feb. 26, at the Menominee Nation Arena in Oshkosh. Westfield fans and students filled the seats of the arena in purple territory, with most of their available tickets being sold before the game.
“I cannot thank our community enough for the support and generosity during our tournament run. It will be an experience these girls will never forget,” commented Lady Pioneer Coach Luke Showen.
The team was paired with the number one seed, Aquinas Blugolds of La Crosse. Westfield had their work cut out for them, as the Lady Blugolds were going into State with 21 wins and no losses under their belts.
The Lady Pioneers unfortunately were not able to sink as many shots as Aquinas during the game. The Lady Blugolds were a tough opponent, with their top player Jacy Weisbrod, a junior this year, even setting a record of most 3-point field goals made in a Division 3 State Game. Weisbrod had seven 3-pointers and 12 successful 2-pointers, making her the top scorer from both teams.
Westfield put up a good fight though, scoring 21 points in the first half, and an additional 24 in the second half. The score ended 45-69 in favor of Aquinas.
Brandi Lentz scored the most points for the team, with 15. Lentz had five of seven 2-point attempts and went 5 for 6 at the free throw line. Nadia Hoffa managed 12 points, including a successful 3-point attempt. Carly Drew closely followed with 11 points which included a 3-pointer and going 2 for 2 at the free throw line. Lexi Brakebush helped out with 7 points on the board, including one 3-pointer.
Coach Showen ends the season with a positive attitude and sense of pride for his team, quoting “The girls have a lot to be proud of. They were conference, regional and sectional champions this season. They set great examples of teamwork, unselfishness and competitive spirit.”
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The Westfield Lady Pioneer starting lineup was introduced at the Menominee Nation Arena in Oshkosh before the State Tournament against Aquinas Lady Blugolds on Feb. 26. Brandi Lentz gets cheered on by her team and fans during the introduction.