By John Miller
Whenever a new coach comes in and takes over a program, it always helps their credibility if players can tell early on that they know what they’re talking about.
For new Reeds Spring coach Lesley Reeves-Eakins, all she has to do is pull out the record book.
Reeves-Eakins graduated from Ozark High School in 1983 and still holds the records for total field goals and rebounds in a game and rebounds in a season. She used to hold the all-time scoring record at Ozark, but that was broken a few years back by Hannah Cook (now playing collegiately at the University of Alabama).
Needless to say, when Reeves-Eakins speaks, her players will know that she knows what she’s talking about. Having that credibility is important as she takes over a program that finished with a 2-23 record last season.
“This season is all about getting to know each other and building a program,” said Reeves-Eakins, who coached three different sports (including basketball) at Overton High School in Memphis, TN over the course of a 14-year span. Most recently, she coached volleyball, basketball, and soccer at Nixa for the past eight and a half years.
“I think we will surprise some schools this year, but with only one senior returning, we will be very young. Every game will be a key matchup as we work hard to start our climb.”
Two starters and five total letter-winners return from last year, giving the Lady Wolves some experience they hope they can build on this season.
Senior Keri Johnson averaged 7.7 points and 3.8 rebounds last year. In addition to production, she’ll be counted on to help supply leadership for Reeds Spring this season. “Keri will bring some height to our team,” said Reeves-Eakins of the 6-foot tall Johnson. “She will be a scorer for us and strong on the boards.”
Sophomore Kalina Asbill started last year as a freshman, averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 1.2 assists. “Kalina will be our predominant ball-handler and will bring quickness and a decent shot to the team.”
Reeds Spring also returns three lettermen: juniors Nicole Longstreet and Jenny Essary and sophomore Abby Rudd. “Nicole is a forward with a strong shot,” Reeves-Eakins said. “Jenny is a utility player that can do it all, and Abby has very strong athleticism and will be a ball handler and strong on the boards.”
The Lady Wolves welcome in three newcomers: senior Shayla Stark, junior Tara Sampson, and freshman Carley Eakins. Stark is a move-in from Strafford.
