With a successful fall sports season in the books, Del Val is now looking forward to start up winter sports like basketball. Varisty coach Benjamin Ibach shared a couple sneak peaks to the upcoming season.

The Del Val girls basketball season starts Tuesday, Dec. 17 with a match against North Hunterdon. The opening game will set the tone for the season.

“We are looking forward to a great season and are excited to play [this] Tuesday,” Ibach said.

The team has a lot of returning stars, such as Elana Falkenstein, Keira White, Lindsey Ditmar, Maggie Simpson and Mikaila Messenger. Fans can also look forward to some newer players.

“Key newcomers will be Klaudia Burke, Peyton Dierker, Hailey Favereaux, Sadie Erling, Rylee Hintenach, Ally Moschberger, Kylie Croasdale, Amaya Harvey and Allison Harvey,” Ibach said.

Even with the promising team this season brings, there are still going to be some challenging games.

“Each and every game for us is tough,” said Ibach. “We take one game at a time. Right now, we are focused on North Hunterdon. Our first goal is to get off to a great start Tuesday night and continue to improve from there.”

The girls will have a variety of games, 10 away and 10 at home, along with some themed nights.

Jan. 9 is Youth Night, and all girls basketball players from the sending districts are welcome.

Jan. 23 is Pink Out, and Feb. 11 is Senior Night. Make sure to dress according to the theme, and come out to support the seniors who have put in their all these past few years.

It’s safe to say Del Val can expect a great season from these hard-working girls. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the Del Val girls basketball team is ready to play hard.

“[This] week will be a great test for us. We are looking forward to it,” Ibach said.