Chieftains done proud with conference nods

Although the Lake Holcombe girls basketball program hoped to still get in their end-of-the-season awards banquet, with schools closed until May 26, along with social distancing guidelines, that is no longer an option. However, that doesn’t mean coach Jennifer Lechleitner wasn’t going to highlight her team’s accomplishments.

The Chieftains ended the year at 15-9 overall and 9-3 in the East Lakeland Conference, taking third. Individual recognitions would have been handed out at the awards banquet, for those who went above and beyond this season.

Included in that, was senior Megan Lechleitner, who received MVP.

“This award is selected by all teammates voting anonymously,” said J. Lechleitner. M. Lechleitner served as a team captain, had the top free throw percent, was a Scholar Athlete Medal recipient, letter winner, All-Conference Honorable Mention nominee and member of the Chippewa County Girls basketball team.

Senior Hannah Winchel was recognized for her contributions to the team, by receiving a letter pin.

Brooke Lechleitner, sophomore, who was a team captain, was named as an All-Conference First Team member, was a Scholar Athlete Medal recipient, lettered, was First Team All-Chippewa County and Honorable Mention All-Northwest Region. She also had the most rebounds for the team, as well as assists, steals, blocks and was the leading scorer. B. Lechleitner ranked first on the Chippewa County leading scorer board throughout the season.

Allison Golat-Hattamer, junior, made All-Conference Second Team, received a Scholar Athlete Medal, was a team captain, the top three-pointer scorer, an honorable mention for the All-Chippewa County Team and ranked 9/10 on the Chippewa County scoring board.

Sophomore Josi Elmberg was given the Most Improved Player, along with a letter.

Freshman Karly Kirkman earned a Scholar Athlete Medal and lettered, while freshman Belle Jones received the Coaches Award and a letter. Freshman Hannah Wincek received a Scholar Athlete Medal.

Carly Varva, sophomore, and freshman Justine Kane received team letters. Junior Bailey O’Connor was unable to finish the season because of medical conditions, but was a contributor during her time on the court.

“I would like to thank my seniors – Megan, Hannah and Klar (Klaryssa) Carrell – for being leaders for our young team,” said J. Lechleitner. “I wish you all the most success in your future endeavors. I also look forward to next season, as we had a very young team this year, and only see great things to come.”