Gracie Furlong as she plays in last year's state tournament. “Being able to experience a state game is something that I will never forget,” said Gracie Furlong ‘25. “I am really hoping we can make another big run this year.” The Galena Pirates ended up taking state runner-up last season!

After a successful fall season for Galena athletics, the winter season has begun! There is a lot of excitement surrounding basketball this year. Especially after the historic season, the girls' basketball team had last year.

The practices have begun, and the boys' and girls' programs are working extremely hard to perform at a high level this season. “Coming off an unforgettable season last year, we could not wait for this season to begin,” said Addie Hefel ‘24. “We are willing to put in a lot of work during practice, to become the best we can be.” 

The girls' basketball program this year has a roster of fifteen girls, and there is enough to have both a JV and Varsity team, unlike last year! This is very exciting for both the coaches and the players, as it gives more girls a chance to practice and advance their skills. “There has been a lot of anticipation heading into this season,” said Taylor Burcham ‘24. “I have been working very hard in the off-season, getting in the gym whenever I can, and I give 100% effort in practice to improve my game personally.” The team dynamic is already very strong on the girls’ basketball team, as they head into their first few games of the season. 

The boys' basketball program has also been very eager to begin their season. They have many returning players that will be large assets to the varsity team. The boys had a successful season last year, but this year their team should be even stronger. “We have worked really hard so far this year and we have been changing things up so we are getting everything out of our practices,” said Connor Glasgow ‘24. “I really feel like we could be something special this year.”

Both the girls and boys; varsity teams will begin their seasons playing in tournaments. The girls play Wednesday, November 16 at the Warren Tournament vs. Warren. The boys will tip off their season at the Scales Mound Tournament vs. East Dubuque on November 21! Go out and support your Pirates!