MONROE, CT — There is a new coach in place on the basketball court at Masuk High School, as Dan Young takes over the Panthers’ girls basketball team.
“I am incredibly excited to be the new head coach at Masuk,” he said. “After nine seasons as the head coach at Jonathan Law High School, I’m eager to take on the challenge of helping Masuk return to the success of their past.”
The Panthers, following Wednesday’s season-opener at Bassick of Bridgeport at 5:30 p.m., have their home opener, when South-West Conference rival Brookfield comes to the David Strong Gymnasium Friday, Dec. 16, for a 7 o’clock tip.
“Coach Strong built an incredible program at Masuk and led outstanding players to success,” Young said. “I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to work with the student-athletes, as well as the community, to help build a successful program on and off the court.”
Masuk will be led by a trio of guards, captains Maia Ventresca, Jenna Smith and Lauren Breyan.
Other key players Young expects good things from are junior center Olivia Garrity, junior guard Natalie Lieto, junior guard Hannah Fagan, sophomore guards Sam Dube and Sofia Lieto, and freshman guard/forward Bailey Bajda, as well as freshman forward Grace Kearney.
“We have a very positive outlook on our season,” Young said. “As a program, we are looking to establish high expectations in our preparation and practice to translate into success in games. The team has done an excellent job in taking on challenges in a new program over the first two weeks and we are excited to compete this season.”
The Panthers have a quick turnaround following the home opener. They play in the second game of a doubleheader against Shelton on Saturday, Dec. 17, following the boys’ 1 p.m. game with a 3:15 start.
