Unwavering Strategy for Success

The Red Wing Wingers are embarking on a new season with a commitment to their established playing style. Head coach Peter Johnson emphasized the importance of their successful approach, which previously transformed a struggling offense into a competitive 20-win team.

“We’re not going to change our style,” Johnson stated. “We can’t change our style, we can’t change our aggressiveness. We’re not going to change the types of things that help us.”

Player Rotation and Team Dynamics

As the season commences, the Wingers will operate with a tight rotation featuring six primary players, all of whom are returning talents. This continuity is crucial, as each player understands their specific role and how to implement the team’s strategies effectively.

However, with only one athlete available from the bench during games, the team must exercise caution regarding fouls and injuries. Johnson remains optimistic, stating that the focus should remain on collaborative efforts rather than worrying about potential setbacks.

Senior Leadership

The onus of leadership falls on three seniors: Hallie Johnson, Nora Hanson, and Izzy Guetzlaff. Each player is expected to elevate their performance and inspire their teammates, similar to how underclassmen strive to make a notable impact.

“They’re always here, they are always positive. They’re going to have to be more vocal with the corrections and things. They’re going to have to elevate their game,” Johnson remarked regarding the seniors. He specifically highlighted their contributions, mentioning Hallie’s new starting role and Izzy’s status as a multi-year all-conference player.

Supporting Cast and Overall Strategy

Alongside the senior leaders, junior Alexa Guetzlaff, sophomore Finley Kamps, and freshman Gracie Plath round out the team. These players share a similar skill set, capable of shooting three-pointers, driving towards the basket, and defending effectively within the team’s zone defense.

Johnson reflected on the season’s challenges, noting the importance of maintaining mental and physical stamina. He emphasized a commitment to quicker substitutions to keep players fresh.

Season Opening Results

The Wingers began the season with impressive victories, including a 71-22 win over Albert Lea. In that game, Izzy Guetzlaff showed exceptional prowess, finishing with 24 points, along with notable contributions from Hallie Johnson (12 points) and Finley Kamps (11 points).

In a subsequent home opener against John Marshall, the Wingers secured a commanding 58-23 victory, leading the game thanks to their strong defensive play, which put them ahead swiftly.

Upcoming Schedule

• Dec. 1: vs River Falls (WI), 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 5: at Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.
• Dec. 9: vs Winona, 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 12: at Northfield, 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 13: at Mankato East, 1:30 p.m.
• Dec. 16: vs Faribault, 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 19: vs Mayo, 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 22: vs Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 3: at Kasson-Mantorville, 7 p.m.
• Jan. 6: at Lourdes, 7:15 p.m.
• Jan. 8: at Century, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 10: at Austin, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 13: vs Benilde-St. Margaret’s, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 15: at John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 20: vs Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 24: at Mankato West, 2 p.m.
• Jan. 26: vs Caledonia, 6:15 p.m.
• Jan. 27: vs Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.
• Jan. 30: at Winona, 7:30 p.m.
• Feb. 2: vs Northfield, 7:30 p.m.
• Feb. 6: at Faribault, 7:30 p.m.
• Feb. 9: vs Byron, 7:30 p.m.
• Feb. 12: vs Lake City, 7:15 p.m.