Written by Taevyn Zinnel
On Wednesday, February 19th the girls’ basketball team took down Western Christian to advance to the Regional finals. The final score of the game was 68-46. Top scorers in the game were Hayden Kuhlmann with 20, Lauren McLaughlin with 18, and Hayden McLaughlin added in 14. Kuhlmann recorded seven steals in the victory.
The Algona girls’ basketball season came to an end on Saturday, February 22nd. They made it to the Regional final where they took a loss to a tough Spirit Lake team 61-53. Top scorers for the lady Bulldogs were Hayden McLaughlin with 18, Hayden Kuhlmann with 13, and Bella Jo Dunning added in 8. Leading in rebounds was Dunning with 6, Lauren McLaughlin with 4, and Casey VanOtterloo with 4. Dunning led the team in assists with 6.
The lady Bulldogs ended their season with a 20-4 record.Taylor VanOtterloo says, “I will miss playing with my sister, but I'm looking forward to next year.” Graduating seniors include Kayla Buscher, Paige Schmitt, Casey VanOtterloo, and Lauren McLaughlin. They also graduate managers Emerson Waltz and Olivia Thilges.
Academic All State award winners from the Iowa Girls Coaches Association this season include Kayla Buscher, Paige Schmitt, & Casey VanOtterloo. The qualification for this award includes being in the top 10% in the state of Iowa. It is based on grades, nominations from coaches, and ACT scores.
Lauren McLaughlin was named to the District 3A northwest team. Lauren McLaughlin & Hayden Kuhlmann earned 1st team unanimous selections to the All Conference first team while Hayden McLaughlin made second team and Casey VanOtterloo made the third team. Overall it was a great season for the Bulldogs.