Enumclaw girls

The Enumclaw girls basketball team returns to the court with a strong mix of young players and experienced veterans, all ready to take the next step.

Last season the Hornets made the district tournament losing to Lincoln, beating Columbia River and losing to Lakes, finishing with a 12-11 record.

This year the girls will be looking to bounce up a step to the state round.

"That is always our goal and where we want to be," head coach Mindi Dribnak said.

Returning to floor for the Hornets is senior Samantha Engebretsen, playing guard. Engebretsen was injured mid season last year, but was still named first team all-league.

Dribnak said the impact Engebretsen has showed last season when the team went 5-2 when she was at the point and 3-4 after she was injured.

At the post is Kylie Rademacher. Dribnak said Rademacher is able to pound the paint and move out to the wing and shoot.

The coach said Rademacher and Engebretsen will lead the team this season and, "they are the best kids to coach. They do everything you ask and more."

A special addition to the bench this year will be Tate Kody Dribnak, born Oct. 14. The coach said the newest addition to her family will be on the bench, but will likely not get too much playing time.

Also coaching for the Hornets are Heather Hitch and Julie Anderson.

The Hornets opened the season Tuesday at Rogers, past the press deadline.

The girls host White River at 5:15 p.m. Friday, part of a doubleheader between the neighboring schools.