New faces, Same Expectations!
The Hawks 22-23 season is officially underway and they will be looking to make their 3rd consecutive FCSAA State Tournament appearance. One key component the Hawks will have to overcome is injuries early on. The incoming freshmen class will now be leaned on more heavily to step up.
Three key contributors have been out thus far to start the season. Asnate Gerke, a major piece to last year’s state title run and 2022 protected starter, will not get the chance to suit up this season after going down with a torn ACL in training camp. Jazmine Spencer, last year’s leading scorer who just committed to Jacksonville State University, has been sidelined after going out with a concussion just minutes into the 2022-2023 season. She is not expected to see the court until at least game 4. Zuleykia Santiago, a freshman from University High School, will also be sidelined for the season after going down with a torn ACL and meniscus in practice.
However, the adversity is something the Hawks coaching staff wants the players to use as fuel. There will be a good chunk of girls playing heavy minutes that weren't expecting such a big role this early on, but the young Hawks will get the chance to learn on the fly. "We always preach how do you respond to adversity? How do you respond when things aren't going your way? That’s what shapes character." Head coach Chris Springs added.
The Hawks will be looking to make their 3rd consecutive trip to the FCSAA state tournament appearance, despite a tough schedule. "The hope is with playing a tough regular season schedule, it will prepare us for post season competition. We strongly believe, it's not how you start, it's how you finish."
Last year’s season highlights (2021-2022)
Daria Whitley
A sophomore last year, Daria provided the Hawks with an excellent scoring punch and boost of energy every time she stepped on the court. Daria averaged 17 points per game and finished the year shooting 37.4% from three-point range. She finished the season scoring 32 points on an efficient 10-16 shooting against nationally ranked Northwest Florida. She had other scoring outbursts of 38 and 36 points against Jones and St Petersburg College. Daria made first team all-conference and NJCAA Region 8 all-tournament team. She is currently playing for Palm Beach Atlantic University on a full scholarship.
Jazmine Spencer
A spark plugs for the Hawks off the bench or in the starting lineup. Jazmine was able to get to any spot on the floor at any time she wanted. As a true freshman, she averaged 18 points per game and scored 30+ in 5 games last year and had 6 games of at least 17. She had a career high 8 three pointers on 53% shooting against DME Academy. A few games later she followed up this performance with 7 threes against Florida Southwestern State College. Jazmine made the NJCAA all Region 8 and All Southern Conference first team. She just recently committed to Division 1, Jacksonville State University. Jazmine has yet to suit up for games this year due to a concussion, but the Hawks will be looking forward to using her production when she gets back healthy.
2022-2023 Season
The Hawks are looking to make their run to another FCSAA state tournament appearance. With a roster of only 2 sophomores, the Hawks will be looking to freshman Kiana Bean, Daimelys Modera, Omega Payton, Renae Brant, Trinity Goldwire and Eizaenirys Allende for production.
Newly acquired transfer, Andjela Pavicevic will be looking to make an immediate impact on the young Hawks. A transfer from Glenville State College, who won the Division 2 National Championship last year. She is an extremely smart and skilled basketball player with a high IQ for the game.
The Hawks next game will be at St. Petersburg College followed by Daytona State College.
We are excited to see these lady hoopers in action!