Tom Zolinski’s Freeland Falcons have gotten off to a 5-2 start, but are expected to make plenty of noise in the girls basketball ranks before the season comes to an end.
Much is usually expected from a Freeland girls basketball team and this one is no exception. The losses have been to Saginaw Heritage and Bay City Western in non-league play. The Falcons are 4-0 in the Tri-Valley Conference Central.
It’s Zolinski’s 11th year. Last season, Freeland lost in the state semifinals to Ypsilanti Arbor Prep 54-46. Freeland had been undefeated prior to that game.
“Offensively, I think we’re a little bit better this year,” Zolinski said. “We’re struggling a little defensively. We’re starting to gel a little bit and are reading off each other offensively.”
Freeland enjoys plenty of experience back including two seniors in her fourth year on the varsity and three juniors who are in their third year of varsity play.
Senior Kaylee Argyle has committed to play at Trine University, Ind., and is a captain.
“She’s up in her points per game,” Zolinski said. “She’s stepped it up offensively. She can be real annoying for the other team on defense. She plays great defense.”
Olivia Farrell is also a senior in her fourth year and is a center. She’s averaging 12 rebounds a game.
“She’s really going after the ball,” Zolinski said. “She’s strong. She’s committed to playing in Rochester College in the Troy area.”
Junior Alyssa Argyle is in her third varsity season and plays inside and outside for the Falcons.
“She’s a great passer, she can shoot the 3-pointer,” Zolinski said. “She’s an all-around offensive threat. It’s her second year starting.”
Lily Beyer is another outside threat for Freeland.
Autumn Kloha has been the team’s top defensive player and is in her third varsity season.