EPHS Principal Janet Sheehan Athletic Director Paul Amaral Assistant AD Robert Duarte Athletic Department (401)435-7843 EPHS (401)435-7806 Fax: (401)435-7864

Townies Earn Multiple Accolades

The coaching staff as well as the entire athletic department, would like to congratulate three players that were recognized by the RI Girls Basketball Coaches Association for their accomplishments this season. Juniors Alyssa Dias and Shania Connor were voted Honorable Mention for the All Division team, while senior Michaela Wiggins was nominated 1st Team All Division, as well as 2nd Team All-Class. These ladies should be extremely proud, and there will be a banquet at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick on Thursday March 24th to recognize their accomplishments. Tickets are $25 a piece, and anyone is welcome to attend. Please let Coach Solitro know by this Wednesday if you plan on attending.

March 5, 2011                                            Quarterfinal Round at Rhode Island College

The Townies saw their magical ride come to an end with a Quarterfinal loss to undefeated and number one seeded Barrington. The team was six minutes away from pulling off the upset, when they went up for the first time 37-35 on the Eagles. The team then had three straight empty possessions, in which the shot selection was questionable. The team relied heavily on the outside shot, while their strong suit has been attacking the basket as of late. Still, the team hit some big shots all night to battle back from deficits at different points in the game. This team should be extremely proud of themselves as they rattled off five straight victories at the end of the season to put themselves in a position to play at RIC with the final eight teams. The Townies finished their season with a 15-10 overall record, and 9-9 in the league in just their first season back in Division I, since 2002. Unfortunately, the game was the last in a Townie uniform for seniors Meghan Conheeny, Charlotte Newton, Victoria Blaydes, and Michaela Wiggins. Coach Solitro and Coach Cabral would like to thank these ladies for all they have done for East Providence Basketball. Their tireless efforts will not be forgotten, and we wish them all the best as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

March 2, 2011                                                East Providence 61  North Kingstown 50

The Townies traveled down to North Kingstown to take on the number four-seeded Skippers, and earned themselves an opportunity to play in the Quarterfinal round this Saturday at Rhode Island College. Both teams battled back and forth in the first half and the Townies saw their lead extend to as many as eight, but only held a slim four point lead at the break (28-24). The second half the Townies attacked the Skippers pressure defense, but struggled to finish numerous close range shots. The team did most of their damage from the stripe going 23-32 in the second half, 25-37 for the game. Alyssa Dias was 12-14 from the charity stripe, finishing with a team high 18 points. Michaela Wiggins finished the evening with 16 points, while Shania Connor had 12 of her own. Taylor Wiggins shook off her first half nerves, and finished with 8 points and nine boards. Despite dealing with foul trouble, Victoria Blaydes finished with a team best 12 rebounds. Mary Monagle had 5 points to go along with her 5 steals, and numerous deflections. The Townies will play the night-cap against number one seeded Barrington (19-0). Game time is 7PM. Please come out and support your Townies!!!

Townie Playoff Picture Is Set... The Townies secured the 5th seed in Division 1 North for the upcoming State Playoffs. The team will travel to face North Kingstown who finished as the number four seed in the Southern Division. The game will be played this Wednesday, March 2nd, at 7PM at North Kingstown High School. Come out and support your Townies!!!

February 25, 2011                                     East Providence 50  Woonsocket 34

The Townies picked up a huge win in their regular season finale against the Villa Novans. The team rattled off four league victories in a row to jump from a possible 8th seed in the upcoming playoffs, to securing the 5th seed tonight. The win also evens the Townie league record to 9-9 in their first season back in Division 1 since the 2002 season. The team finishes the regular season with a 14-9 overall record, while the Junior Varsity team enjoyed tremendous success, finishing with a 16-2 overall record. Against Woonsocket, the team was paced by senior Michaela Wiggins who finished with 17 points and 9 boards. Fellow senior Vicky Blaydes had her second double-double in as many nights, with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Alyssa Dias finished the night with 10 points of her own. Tonight was also senior night, which saw Meghan Conheeny, Victoria Blaydes, Charlotte Newton, and Michaela Wiggins play their last game in the EP Gymnasium. We are all extremely proud of these four young ladies.

February 24, 2011                                 East Providence 60  Ponaganset 51

The Townies got even team scoring as they traveled to Ponaganset to pick up a huge road victory. In a game that had huge playoff implications, the Townies saw the Chieftains jump out to a 19-4 lead to start the game. The Townies then answered with a 26-6 run and led 30-25 at the break. The Chieftains regained the lead at about the 4 minute mark (47-46), but not before Shania Connor answered with a huge 3 point shot to give the Townies a 48-46 lead that they would not relinquish the rest of the way. The team shot an impressive 25-35 from the charity stripe, a complete turnaround from their 6-23 performance from the line during these two teams first encounter of the season. Shania Connor and Victoria Blaydes paced the Townies with 13 points. Blaydes also added 11 boards to give her a double-double for the evening. Taylor Wiggins also had a double-double of her own finishing with 10 points and 11 rebounds, giving the team a well -needed spark off the bench. Michaela Wiggins was also in double digits with 12 points, while Alyssa Dias chipped in 9. After a shaking off their 2 hour "bus legs," the JV team fought back from a nine-point deficit to win their game as well. Both teams play their regular season finale on Friday against the visiting defending state champions, Woonsocket. This game also has huge playoff implications for both teams as well.  Friday night is also Senior Night in which the Townies will see seniors, Michaela Wiggins, Victoria Blaydes, Meghan Conheeny, and Charlotte Newton play their last game in the EP Gymnasium. Game times are 5:15/7:00. 

February 22, 2011                             East Providence 53  North Providence 30

The Townies saw eleven different players score as they picked up a victory against visiting North Providence. Alyssa Dias led all scorers with 15 points and 3 steals, while Michaela Wiggins chipped in 9 points and 8 rebounds. The team gets ready to play two extremely important games this Thursday and Friday. After traveling to Ponaganset for a key match-up, the Townies will close out their regular season slate at home for Senior Night against Woonsocket. Both games hold serious playoff implications, as all three teams prepare for the upcoming postseason.

February 18, 2011                                           East Providence 66  Lincoln 48

The Townies put together a full 32 minutes of team basketball, and played their best game of the season. The team jumped out fast, but Lincoln would not go away quietly as the Lions brought the score back within five (25-20), with about six minutes to go in the first. After upping their lead to eleven at the break (38-27), the Townies continued their solid play in the second, and all players saw action in the final 16 minutes of play. Junior Alyssa Dias, returned to action, and had a solid game with 17 points and 4 steals. Senior Michaela Wiggins also had 17 points to go along with 8 boards. Victoria Blaydes played the best game of her career, finishing with a double-double, 12 points and 14 rebounds. Shania Connor had 9 points all coming from behind the arc, while sophomores Mary Monagle and Taylor Wiggins had 6 and 5 points respectively. The Townie JV squad overcame a 14 point deficit, and played tremendous defense in the second half to solidify a win. Both teams prepare for a busy week as the Townies host North Providence on Tuesday, travel to Ponaganset on Thursday, and finish off the regular season against defending state champions, Woonsocket on Friday. NOTE: The Woonsocket game originally scheduled away on Friday, is now home, that will also be senior night for the Townies.

February 15, 2011                                        East Providence 41  Warwick Vets 8

The Townies participated in their 2nd annual PINK ZONE game in which all the money raised went to the Kay Yow foundation for breast cancer awareness and prevention. Players, coaches, and fans all wore pink to show their support to this cause. The Townies opened up a 20-2 halftime lead and saw 9 different players score in the game. Sophomore Brittany Crosby led all scorers with 10 points. The program would like to thank everyone who made a donation this evening. The JV team got back to action after having last night off and picked up another solid win. Both teams grab a couple days rest before traveling to Lincoln this Friday to face the Lions. Game times are 5:15/7:00.

February 14, 2011                                      Smithfield 69  East Providence 55

The Townies traveled to Smithfield and dropped a hard fought game to the 12 and 2 Sentinels. The team opened up with an 11-4 lead, and were tied 18-18 with just over 4 minutes to go in the first. After a couple big shots and some silly team turnovers, Smithfield saw their lead grow to eleven at the break. The Townies also went 4-14 from the stripe during the first 16 minutes of play, and a woeful 11-25 for the game. (Smithfield was 33-43 from the line). The team started slow in the second without the services of guard, Alyssa Dias, and saw the Sentinel lead grow to as many as 18. The team fought hard to get back in it, and played a close-to-even second, but never could erase the first half deficit. The team has to find ways to finish games, and focus for a complete 32 minutes of basketball. Michaela Wiggins paced the team with 27 points. The Townies are right back in action tomorrow February 15th, to face Warwick Vets in their 2nd Annual PINK ZONE game. Game times are 5:15/7:00.

February 11, 2011                                 Cumberland 55-51

Townies come up just short against the visiting Clippers. After multiple ties and lead changes the team saw themselves down a bucket with just over a minute to go. The Townies got the look they wanted on three straight trips, but failed to finish two lay-ups and a  close range jumper that would have tied it. Leading Cumberland scorer Kelsey Cahill hit a turn around bank shot with about 50 seconds left to put the Clippers up 4. A few ticks later Alyssa Dias hit a jumper from the right wing to make it a one possession game. The team was forced to foul, but unfortunately were beaten to the ball on a loose rebound after the Clippers missed the free-throw. Although the loss hurts the team executed well offensively finishing with only 11 turnovers, but just need to find a way to hit the big shots in crunch time. The team was paced by Michaela Wiggins 19 points, and Alyssa Dias 14 points. The JV team won easily. Both teams have yet another tough week ahead of them, playing Monday at Smithfield, Tuesday home against Vets (Pink Zone Game), and away Friday at Lincoln. All games are 5:15/7:00 starts.

February 9, 2011                                    Bay View 64  East Providence 36

Townies lack complete focus and get beaten by Bay View. The one bright spot of the evening was the JV team's win over the previously unbeaten Bengals. Next game is Friday at home against Cumberland 5:15/7:00.

February 7, 2011                                 Woonsocket 54    East Providence 48    OT

The Townies displayed some real heart, but came up just short of defeating defending state champs, Woonsocket. The Townies opened up the game missing a half dozen easy lay-ups and found themselves down 12 at the break. The second half saw the team dig down defensively, and have some very good offensive possessions. After  Taylor Wiggins tied the game at 44, both teams traded empty possessions. The Townies got the ball back with 16 seconds left to play and saw two lay-ups go in and out. After a jump ball happened after the miss, the possession arrow favored the Townies. Out of the timeout, the team got one last look as time expired and had the ball rattle in and out, which set up the extra period. The team's free throw woes continued as they missed the first 3 out of 4 freebies of overtime, as well as some close looks at the rim. Of note the team was 9-21 from the stripe, but had a season low 8 team turnovers for the game. Michaela Wiggins led the team with 18 points, while Shania Connor chipped in 11. The JV team saw everyone get some action, as they won easily. Both teams travel to Bay View this Wednesday. Game times are 5:15/7:00. NOTE: THE GAME AT WOONSOCKET ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED FOR 2/1, HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR 2/25 (7PM).

February 7, 2011                                         Townies To Be Featured On Varsity Life

This past Thursday's game (FEB 3rd) against the Barrington Eagles, will be run on the show Varsity Life on Monday, February 7th on COX Channel 3. The program will run at 7pm and feature player interviews, live game footage, and an inside look into the Townie huddle. The show will also be available through YouTube, and Turnto10.com.

February 5th, 2011                                                                      JV Update

The Townies JV team lost a hard fought battle against EWG in the opening round of thee JV State Tournament which was held at Bay View High School. After shaking off some first half jitters, the team looked more like themselves as they dominated the glass, and played solid defense in the second half. The Townies closed to within five, late in the second, but the Avengers used their hot perimeter game to get back a double digit lead that they would not relinquish for the rest of the game. Although the loss hurts, the girls should be extremely proud of their accomplishments so far this season. They are 9-2 overall, and have all shown signs of improvement. There are still many games left, so the team will have more opportunities to continue to grow. Great job ladies, we are very proud of you.

February 3rd, 2011                                               Barrington 62  East Providence 39

The Townies tumbled against the visiting Eagles. The team played tough and led midway through the first, but the 12-0 Eagles made some key plays to go into the break with a 12 point halftime lead (34-22). The Townies closed to within six at the 9 minute mark, (38-32), but the Townies then went ice cold from the field, only scoring 7 points the rest of the way. The JV game was cancelled. Both teams return to the court this Monday at home as they prepare to take on the defending State Champions, Woonsocket. Game times are 5:15 & 7:00.

January 30 2011                                                   2nd Annual Alice Sullivan Games

This Sunday, East Providence will send seniors Michaela Wiggins and Charlotte Newton to represent Townie Basketball in the second annual Alice Sullivan Games which will be held at LaSalle High School. Game time is 3:00. Best of luck to both players as the day will feature representatives from every team throughout the state of Rhode Island.

January 28, 2011                                    East Providence 68  St. Rafael Academy 56

The Townies put up huge offensive numbers as they defeated the visiting Saints in the third game of the first annual "East Providence Girls Basketball Day." The afternoon kicked off as Riverside Middle School defeated Martin 19-11. That game was followed by the Junior Varsity team posting a come from behind victory, as Lindsee Allienello hit two huge free throws to put the Townies ahead with under a minute to go. Allienello was the game high scorer finishing with 19 points. The night cap featured the Townie Varsity squad post their highest point total of the season. The team shot 40% from the field and 35% from behind the arc, making all 5 three pointers in the first half. The team was paced by game high scorer Michaela Wiggins who finished with 23 points. Shania Connor finished with a career best 19 points, while Alyssa Dias and Mary Monagle chipped in 10 and 8 points respectively. The sense of rhythm and unity the team played with offensively, is going to have to continue, as the Townies travel to take on the defending Division 1 State Champions, Woonsocket, this Tuesday night. Game times are 5:15 and 7:00. NOTE: The game scheduled at Smithfield for January 26th, has been postponed to February 14th, due to our most recent snowstorm.

January 24, 2011                                                East Providence 35  Lincoln 31

The Townies escaped with a narrow victory after having 28 team turnovers, shooting 22% from the floor, and 11-24 from the line. In a game that was ugly from start to finish, East Providence made a few more plays down the stretch to secure the win. The team needs to have more focus, and mental toughness as they prepare to begin the second half of the season. Silly turnovers, missed lay-ups and woeful free-throw shooting, all need to be addressed to help this team play to their ultimate potential. The Townie JV squad picked up an overtime victory, as they look to continue to prepare for the upcoming JV State Tournament. Both teams have a quick turnaround as they travel to Smithfield to take on one of the division leaders this Wednesday. Game times are 5:15/7:00.

January 20, 2011                                            East Providence 52  Ponaganset 43

The Townies played some solid defense en route to a victory against the visiting Chieftains. The team gained a thirteen point halftime advantage (29-16), and opened up their lead to as much as 16 in the second half. Still the team let Ponaganset hang around with their inability to make free throws down the stretch. The team shot a woeful 6-23 from the stripe, and missed open lay-ups in key situations, but still were able to keep their composure defensively to seal a much needed victory. The team was paced by Michaela Wiggins who finished with 19 points and 13 boards. Junior Shania Connor had 15 points to go along with 4 thefts. Sophomore Taylor Wiggins gave strong minutes coming off the bench, finishing with 8 points and 11 rebounds. The Townie JV team played their best game to date winning 52-30 and were lead by Lindsee Allienello and Caroline Donecker, who finished with 18 and 17 points respectively. Both squads have their hands filled as they prepare for a three-game week next week, beginning with a home game against the Lincoln Lions this Monday. Game times are 5:15 and 7:00.

January 18, 2011                                       East Providence 61  North Providence 42

Townies shake off lethargic first half, and win on the road against the Cougars. The team played as if they were just going through the motions for the first 16 minutes of play. After getting themselves together, they played with more passion and urgency for the final 16 minutes of play. The team was paced by the Wiggins duo, with Michaela finishing with 15 points and her sister Taylor going for 14 points and 8 boards. Junior guards Alyssa Dias and Shania Connor each chipped in 8 points a piece. Eight players scored in the Townies victory. The JV game was cancelled. Both teams are back in action on Thursday as the Townies take on the visiting Chieftans of Ponaganset. Game times are 5:15 and 7:00.

****The game that was scheduled tonight against Lincoln High School has been rescheduled to Monday, January 24th. game times are still 5:15 and 7:00

January 11, 2011                                Wiggins Grabs 1000th Career Rebound!!!

Needing just 5 rebounds senior Michaela Wiggins grabbed her 1000th career rebound tonight. She finished the evening with 12 points and 12 total boards. Last year she became the first female in EP history to reach the 1000 point plateau. Tonight she adds another accomplishment to her list of achievements, by becoming the first Townie female to pull down 1000 boards.  On behalf of the entire athletic department at EPHS, we would like to congratulate Michaela on a very impressive feat.

January 11, 2011                                             East Providence 57  Narragansett 46

The Townies started fast and used an up-tempo style of play to snap a two game losing skid and beat the visiting Mariners. The team finally used their speed and athleticism and played an exciting 32 minutes of basketball. The Townies also shot their highest percentage on the season (42%) with every made shot coming within the paint. The game also featured a season high in steals for the Townie defense, with 13 total thefts. The Townies were paced by a career high game by senior Victoria Blaydes, who finished the evening with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Sophomore Mary Monagle also had a career high 14 points, while Junior Alyssa Dias had 8 points to go along with 9 assists. Junior Shania Connor chipped in with 6 points and 5 steals. Senior Michaela Wiggins reached the 1000 career rebound milestone, finishing the game with a double-double, 12 points and 12 boards. The Townie JV team overcame some early shooting woes, to earn the victory. Brittany Crosby paced the team with 17 points. Both teams have a quick turnaround and will play Lincoln at home this Thursday.

January 7, 2011                                           Cumberland 60  East Providence 50

The Townies blew a 5 point halftime advantage and a one point lead 43-42 with just over 6 minutes to play in the second half. The team was completely out worked as the Clippers raised their physical level of play, and got two, even three shots at the rim on multiple possessions during the final 16 minutes of play. The first half saw the Townies play their best offensive half of basketball by running good sets, and making very good decisions with the ball. Unfortunately, the team lacked the necessary mental and physical toughness to close out the game. The team continues to miss open lay-ups and shots within five feet, which becomes deflating for them. The team's free throw woes continue seeing the Townies shoot a mere 50% on the night from the stripe. The team is going to have to learn to be ready to battle night and night out and play at a more physical level as they try to turn the corner and start finishing games. The JV team picked up a solid victory battling back from a 16 point deficit to win in overtime. Both teams return to action this Tuesday in a non-league contest against visiting Narragansett.

January 4, 2010                                         Bay View 57   East Providence 49

The Townies gave an extremely valiant effort but came up just short against the visiting Bengals. After back and forth action for most of the first half the team went ice cold late in the first, which allowed Bay View to extend their halftime lead to nine (24-15). Although the team continued to make silly turnovers (20 for the game) in the second half, they found themselves only down six with just over three minutes left to play. The biggest difference in the game was at the free throw line, as the Townies missed key freebies down the stretch, while Bay View was able to ice the game at the line. The team went 15-30 at the not so charity stripe for the evening, a stat that needs much improvement. Still the team was sparked by the play of sophomores Mary Monagle and Taylor Wiggins who finished the evening with 9 and 13 points respectively. Senior Michaela Wiggins finished as the team's high scorer and a double-double, with 14 points and 11 boards. Junior Shania Connor had a solid overall game at the guard spot finishing with 12 points. The JV team dropped their first game of the season, but saw great play from sophomore Thomeeka Speaks. Both teams return to action this Friday at Cumberland. Game times are 5:45 andd 7:30.

December 29th-30th                                  Barrington Holiday Booster Tournament

The team participated for the first time in the BHS Booster Tournament. The Townies walked away with two wins in a holiday tournament for the first time in recent memory. On Wednesday, the team beat Rogers in a low scoring rock fight, which saw both teams shoot a dismal 19% from the floor. The team eventually pulled away early from the Vikings in the second half winning 38-22. The team was paced by Junior guard Alyssa Dias and Sophomore forward Taylor Wiggins who had 8 points a piece. Thursday afternoon's contest proved for a more exciting contest as the Townies defeated East Bay rival Mt. Hope by a slim 49-47 margin. The game featured multiple lead changes and a couple occasions where the team found themselves down by five points. After battling back to take the lead, the team had a chance to ice the game from the free throw line on a few different occasions, which allowed Mt. Hope's game high scorer Ribeiro to connect on one of her 6 three point shots of the evening, making the score 46-44. After Alyssa Dias made the front end of the 1 and 1, but missed the second, the Huskies grabbed the rebound and threw up a 26 foot shot with 4 seconds to go but the Townies were whistled for a very questionable foul, putting Ribeiro on the line for three shots to tie the game. After making all 3 shots, the Townies ran in inbound play with 4 seconds left that saw a pretty feed from Alyssa Dias to Michaela Wiggins who made the lay-up as time expired, which accounted for the 49-47 East Providence victory. Wiggins finished the day with 26 points, while Dias chipped in 13. Wiggins was nominated to the All-Tournament team as well. The Townies get back to league play as they welcome East Providence neighbors, Bay View Academy, on Tuesday, January 4th. Game times are 5:15 and 7:00.

December 23, 2010

The Fourth Annual EPHS Girls Basketball Game was a huge success. Both sides played exciting basketball, but more importantly it was a great evening to reunite former and current players from East Providence High School. Thank you to everyone who contributed and participated in this event. A special thanks goes out to Mr. Boucher and Mr. Jackson, who volunteered their time to officiate the contest. All the money raised will go to help defer the cost for the team to participate in the CCRI Summer Basketball league.

December 21, 2010                                       Barrington 59  East Providence 48

The team battled hard all night and cut Barrington's lead to single digits on a couple occasions, but made too many mental errors in key situations to overcome the deficit. The Townies were paced by Michaela Wiggins 12 points and Mary Monagle's 9 points. The team is off until Wednesday when they will play for the first time in the Barrington Booster Holiday Tournament against Rogers High School. Game time is 5pm. The JV team remained undefeated with their 4th victory of the young season. The team continues to be  led by sophomores Lindsee Allienello and Thomeeka Speaks.

ANNUAL ALUMNI GAME The 4th Annual Girls Basketball Alumni Game is set for next Thursday, December 23rd. The game is taking place early in the season this year to allow former players back on college winter break, the opportunity to participate.  Game time is 7pm. The donation fee for all Alumni is $15 dollars, and will include a free-shirt. The game will consist of three twenty minute periods in which former players will play against this years current varsity team.  The game will be officiated as well. Parents and fans are encouraged to come out and show your support for a great cause. There will also be a 50/50 halftime half-court shot raffle. All the money raised for the evening will help defer the cost for our program to compete in this year's summer league, which is held at CCRI in Warwick. For questions or concerns, please contact Coach Solitro @ Msolitro19801@cox.net.  Doors open for everyone at 6:15 PM.

December 14, 2010                                        East Providence 55   St. Rafael Academy 49

The Townies picked up their first road and league victory of the young season. The team utilized a variety of defenses to try and contain the Saints leading scorer Diandra Darosa, who finished the night with 23 points. The team saw their small 4 point halftime lead diminish, as the Saints went up three, midway through the second. The team made a couple of key plays down thee stretch to secure the victory. Townie Senior Michaela Wiggins led all scorers with 24 points and 14 boards, with 18 of her total coming in the second half.  Junior Shania Connor turned in her best performance to date, finishing the night with 14 points and 8 rebounds. Junior Alyssa Dias finished the evening with 9 points and 6 assists, none bigger than the one to Wiggins with just over a minute to play, which gave the team a little breathing room in the closing seconds. The JV team picked up their 3rd win in as many tries winning 36-16. Note: The Woonsocket game scheduled for this Thursday has been rescheduled to early February due to the holiday concert. The team is now off until next Tuesday when they will face border rival Barrington at their place. Game times are 5:15 and 7:00.

December 9, 2010                                               Smithfield 55  East Providence 47

The Townies "turned-over" their league opener to the visiting Sentinels tonight. The team's 20 turnovers coupled with a woeful 30% shooting, led to the Townie defeat. Despite all the miscues, the team still had their opportunities down the stretch as they led by 3 with just over five minutes to play. They just lacked the necessary mental focus and physical toughness to finish the game, missing easy lay-ups and succumbing to the Smithfield ball pressure. Michaela Wiggins was the lone Townie in double digits, finishing with 21 points. Also of note, sophomore Mary Monagle came in off the bench and was a shining light in a somewhat rather dismal EP defensive effort. The JV team picked up their second win of the season, winning 33-20 with sophomore Lindsee Allienello leading the charge. The team is going to have to regroup quickly as they prepare to for their first away contest against Saint Rafael Academy.

December 3, 2010                                           East Providence 43     North Kingstown 39

The Townies tipped off their 2010-2011 campaign with a thrilling injury fund game against the visiting Skippers. The game featured multiple lead changes, as the  team rallied from 1 down with just over a minute and half  to play to secure the victory. The team utilized great defense to make up for their struggles on the offensive side of the ball, and did a great job controlling the glass. The Townies were paced by senior Michaela Wiggins with 14 points and 8 steals, and junior Shania Connor who chipped in 12 points of her own. Senior Vicky Blaydes and sophomore Taylor Wiggins each pulled in 12 boards a piece. The JV team picked up their first win of the season after pulling themselves out of an early nine point hole. Both teams open up their regular season slate against Smithfield this Thursday at home. Game times are 5:15 and 7:00.

Season Preview: After posting a 21-4 record last season the girls basketball team has been moved up to Division 1 this year, while competing in DII the previous 8 seasons. The team will begin its season without the services of senior Charlotte Newton, a two year starter, as she suffered an ACL injury during the off-season. Michaela Wiggins is coming off her best season as she was the first female in East Providence history to reach the 1000 point plateau. She looks to acquire her 1000th rebound early this year as well. Junior guards Alyssa Dias and Shania Connor, along with senior Meghan Conheeny, look to do most of the ball handling this year for the Townies at the guard spot, while the team relies on senior center Victoria Blaydes to control the paint. Sophomore Taylor Wiggins looks much improved from last season as she looks to become more of a threat down low this year for the Townies. The team is filled with sophomores with speed as Mary Monagle, Izzy Newton, Lindsee Allienello, and Thomeeka Speaks, can hopefully give the Townies a much needed defensive spark this year. Juniors Caroline Donnecker and Brianna Cherry, along with sophomore Brittany Crosby look to give the team some needed depth at the forward position. The team's major focus this year is to improve on the defensive side of the ball, as well as limit turnovers. It will be a game every night as the Townies are scheduled to face Smithfield, Barrington, Saint Rafael Academy, Cumberland, Bay View, Lincoln, North Providence, Ponaganset, and last years state champions, Woonsocket, as they compete in the D1 North. The team needs to remain patient as they continue to learn and play at the next level. The girls are working extremely hard as they prepare for their home opener against the Skippers of North Kingstown in an Injury Fund contest. Game times are thirty minutes earlier this year with the JV team playing at 5:15, and Varsity tipping off at 7:00. The Holiday Basket Raffle winning ticket will also be pulled on Friday.
 

HOLIDAY GIFT BASKET RAFFLE Beginning in November, the Girls Basketball team will be selling raffle tickets for a prize filled holiday basket. The basket is worth over $350 dollars, and contains plenty of gift certificates, apparel, and assorted items. Tickets are $5.00 a piece, and can be purchased from any member of the team. The drawing for the raffle will take place at the Townies' first home game on Friday, December 3rd against North Kingstown. Please support the team, and this extremely important fundraiser.

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