Andrews High School's Lady Cats Women's Basketball Team ended their season with a 38-53 loss against Robbinsville in the NCHSAA Western Regional Championship. Although this was an unexpected and disappointing outcome, the team, our school, and our community still recognize the significance that this season has on our athletic history.
"It's been a long time since Andrews has been able to get here," head coach Tim Wood said at a press conference, "49 years, it's been for this program." The team made its first Final Four appearance since 1977. 1977 was also the year the team won the state championship. The team ended 19-11, 8-6 in conference.
When asked about how proud he was of the team and how the season went, Wood said, "Extremely proud. And like I said, I think I'm in shock right now because I, like I've told some people, we feel like we're early to where we're at right now." "I'm really proud of all these young ladies."
The team has definitely made history, making the first Final Four appearance in 49 years. Lots and lots of cheering came from the sendoffs, to the posters, and to the last-minute planning of an entire field trip to bus fans over to see them in action. The Andrews community could not be prouder of how far the team made it.
Our students and our community had a big presence in the season. The student section was always there, cheering on the team. So much so that an entire field trip took 28 students to Lenoir-Rhyne University to watch this talented group play. In addition to the 28, several other students, teachers, and community members were watching. Whether it be 20 students watching or 35+ stomping and rocking the bleachers, cheering for the team, there is always someone who will support. Whether it be 30 community folk spectating, or 100+ screaming to the top of their lungs, cheering for the team, there is always someone who will support. No matter where, no matter when, the Valley will support.
Congratulations to our Women's Basketball Team on this spectacular journey, and on making one season for the history books.
Go Cats!
See the full press conference here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQmHijaJN1A
Photos by Josh V. Bell, Asheville Citizen Times