Chiefs' captains lead by example

Moses Lake's leadership duo guides girls team

MOSES LAKE — Seniors Marielle McKean and Brin Bergeson have done this before.

They have both reprised roles as captains of the Moses Lake High School girls basketball team this season.

Both agree this season has been a better one for the Chiefs, not just because of their one loss record but because the team has come together as a unit.

"We're really pulling together this year," said Brin. Marielle added the team has bonded better and had more chemistry this year.

The role of captain is one both players have taken seriously despite having their own class schedules and interests to attend to off the court.

Brin is taking a class load that includes advanced placement programs and Marielle is deciding whether or not a newspaper is an environment she would like to pursue as a career.

"Coach (Matt) Strophy let us talk to our teachers and tell them what we're doing," said Marielle. Brin added this season has been one of the hardest things she has ever done.

In addition to school, family and friends, the captains take time to study their sport. Both also help organize informal team meetings after home games at local restaurants where the team can sit and hang out, discussing the game or just spending time together.

Part of growing into the responsibility of their roles, Brin and Marielle agree they are better captains than they were last year. Over the summer both attended a workshop with coach Strophy to enhance their leadership abilities.

"We haven't had to challenge the team much," said Marielle. "We've tried to be encouraging and to lead by example."

Their efforts have paid off in a season that has gone well thus far and in an All-League defensive team nod for Marielle.

Brin, Marielle and the rest of their team face off against Walla Walla at 7:30 p.m. tonight at Moses Lake High School.

The Moses Lake boys team plays at Wenatchee at 7:30 p.m. tonight.