Libby girls basketball leaning on culture, resilience this season

With a young roster and limited numbers, the Libby girls basketball team enters the season focused on growth, resilience and supporting one another, according to head coach Todd Boehmler.

“Our expectation this year is to do the best we can with what we have, pick each other up, and stay positive even when things get tough,” Boehmler said. “Tough times don't last but tough people do.”

Turnout was a challenge this winter, forcing the program to adapt, but Boehmler said the situation has also created opportunity for younger players.

“Our turnout was low this season, with only three returning players with varsity experience,” he said. “We will have two teams, frosh and varsity. We brought up six 8th graders to make two teams as we only had 12 high school athletes try out. We are young and eager!!”

Rather than pointing to individual stars, Boehmler emphasized the collective mindset of his team as its biggest strength.

“Our team's biggest strength is without a doubt our team culture,” he said. “It is the best it's ever been and these girls are here for each other and have each other's backs. That makes coaching a lot easier and gives us a better chance to reach our potential.”

Libby competes in a Northwest A Conference Boehmler described as both competitive and unpredictable, with many schools facing similar roster challenges.

“We play in a tough conference and it's hard to say who will be on top in the end as all schools are dealing with low turnout numbers,” he said. “I would expect Bigfork to be right there, but there are no nights off in our conference.”

With a youthful lineup and an emphasis on positivity and teamwork, the Lady Loggers will look to build steadily throughout the season.