In girls sports this fall at Pella High School, the cross-country team finished second in the state and the volleyball team followed that with a matching runner-up trophy.

Expectations are there for a similar, or even better finish, for the girls basketball team this winter. The Lady Dutch went 23-3 and made it to the finals last year before falling to Mason City in the title game.

Coach Jarrod Garland says that having a load of experience back from that squad will be very important for the team’s success this year.

“Not just the fact that they’re skilled – obviously we have returning all-conference and an all-state player, and that’s important – but it’s even from a mental standpoint. If there are lows, they’ve been through it before. If there are highs, they’ve learned not to get too excited and to keep their eye on the prize and their eye on the goals.”

The Lady Dutch will open the 2016 season this Tuesday night with a road game at Mount Pleasant.