Girls’ basketball continues its winning streak; it’s number one

By Casey Russell

The fans are still cheering the girls’ basketball team at Larchmont Charter School (LCS) as the girls continue their winning streak from last year into this season.

“[LCS] girls’ basketball and soccer are both number one in their leagues, both moved up to Division 4 this year and both are gunning for the city championships,” LCS Athletic Director Robin Power told us via email. (LCS girls’ soccer is also at the top of their game; see page 19.)

The season started in November, and there are three games per week. Coach Karen “Goldie” Goldberg observed, “Because six of last year’s players graduated, it’s a very young team, which I find extremely exciting. They are very skilled.” There are only two seniors on the team, captains Sasha Khomutetsky and Stephanie Zarate. Frida Heim, the third captain on the team, is a junior. Of the 12 players on the team, six are freshmen. (With the exception of one of the youngest players, they all have been playing in Goldie’s Youth Sports All Girls’ Basketball League for about five years.)

“I think there’s a natural, innate skill that the younger kids brought to the team. We found the incoming freshman class was very athletic — well-versed in lots of sports, not just basketball, which I think is very important. There was also a natural connection. They just know each other well on the court,” said Goldie. “They were mentally, physically and emotionally prepared for competition at the varsity level. They rose to the occasion, and that’s extremely exciting for a coach.”

The season will end Mon., Feb. 6. Said Goldie, “[Then] we’ll find out who will play in the city championships and if we’ll get a chance to be number one.” City championships will take place Wed., Feb 22. Goldie’s predictions?

“I think they’re on their way to being city champions again. I think they have it in them.”