December 10, 2010
HCV Preview: Kearny
Stefanie Gomes is one of four juniors in the starting lineup for Kearny.
Click Here for Kearny girls basketball photos
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
Last season was one Kearny would sooner forget. A rash of injuries to a senior-ladden core turned what was once a promising campaign into an 8-16 nightmare for head coach Jody Hill and Kardinals.
But as difficult as 2010 was for Kearny, there was a silver lining. Despite having just one senior on the roster, the Kardinals have plenty of experience thanks in large part to the injuries of last year.
“As much as last year hurt and we took our hits with injuries and inexperience, I think it helped us for this season,” Hill said. “The biggest thing is that they got the nervous of varsity basketball out of them. There’s been a huge difference in their confidence and how they play together on the court.”
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Kearny returns four starters headlined by point guard Janitza Aquino. Aquino, a four-year starter, averaged 16.6 points and five assists per game last season. What has impressed Hill the most is the condition – both physical and mental – the career 1,200-point scorer has entered the season in.
“We’re extraordinarily pleased with the way she came in for her senior year,” Hill said. “She’s showing leadership and looks like she’ll be a great captain.
“When (Janitza) puts her mind to it she can do anything she wants on the court. She’s that talented.”
Junior wing Stefanie Gomes emerged as the second scoring option after averaging 12.5 points, eight rebounds and three steals a season ago. That physical play on the glass will be imperative as the 5-foot-8 Gomes is the tallest member of the starting lineup.
Gomes is one of seven juniors expected to see extended time on the court this season. Michelle Goncalves, forward Angel Conde and combo guard Vanessa DaSilva round out the starting five for the Kardinals.
Forwards Jenna Sandeamenico (5-foot-10), and Ashleigh Amadeo (5-foot-8) provide some desperately needed size off the bench along with guard/forward Mercedes Lois.
“One of our strengths is our scrappiness,” Hill said. “It’s a good group of hard-working kids. Together they have the best teamwork we’ve had in a long time on the court.”
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