From The Bench: East Haven Girls Basketball Ready to Play

The East Haven girls basketball team has been waiting a long time to lace up their sneakers and hit the hardwood. This 2020 team who has had their season moved to February and shortened will be led by Tri-Captains #4 Erin Curran, #12 Brooke Mortimer and #33 Taylor Salato. As a junior Salato earned All-SCC First Team and All-State First Team honors.

When asked about getting back on the court Salato said, “It feels great to be given the chance to get back on the court especially with the pandemic we are faced with. Most of us were crossing our fingers praying for a season and even though it’s a shorter one this year, I'm just glad we got something.” Brooke Mortimer had a similar response, “It feels great. I honestly didn’t realize how much I missed playing with my teammates until we finished our first practice. Being back on the court keeps me motivated and amps up my happiness.”

Erin Curran commented on what she did with the extended off season. “During the off season, I spent a lot of time just working on skills. Because of Covid, we weren’t able to really play with each other so I made sure to spend a lot of time working on my individual game. I took thousands of shots in my driveway and probably did hours of dribbling drills.” Training like a true captain.

Finally I asked all 3, as seniors and team leaders what do you tell the underclassmen that might have a full schedule next year?

Brook Mortimer said, “Honestly, just have fun. Never forget why you started playing & never stop pushing yourself. You might not make every shot but that’s okay, just use that as motivation to keep shooting. And don’t forget to cheer on your teammates, everyone has a part on the team even if they aren’t put on the court every game, so don’t forget to cheer as loud as you can for everyone. Lastly, play every second like it’s your last!!”

Taylor Salato had this advice, “Don't take any basketball time for granted because it all goes by so fast. Work hard every practice, game, and in the off-season because it’ll only benefit you and the team in the end. Make every second count.”

Erin Curran tells them, “As a Senior whose Junior season got heavily impacted by the pandemic as well, I remind everyone on my team everyday to bring as much energy as possible and to leave everything they have on the court. You never know what could happen, and your high school career on its own goes by so unbelievably fast. So, I just try to remind all the underclassmen that they should never take it for granted. I want the message for our team this season to be just playing your heart out every practice and every game.”

I know all 3 players and the rest of the Easties will be ready and out there giving 110%. Well they won’t be waiting much longer as they travel Wednesday night to take on North Haven at 7pm, JV at 5pm. to start the season.

I wish them all the best this year!

Mark Curcio

From The Bench
Curcio Sports Photos