By Eric Stock
BLOOMINGTON – There’s a saying at Central Catholic High School that’s becoming all too common.
“It’s Time to Change the Sign.”
The school uses its electronic billboard outside its front entrance to trumpet its students’ latest academic or athletic achievement.
The sign is due for another makeover after the girls’ basketball team placed second in the Class 2A state tournament at Redbird Arena on Saturday. The Saints fell to defending champion Byron, 55-32, in the title game.
Senior Kennedy Sheehan said after a celebration at the school on Sunday she’s grateful to have played on four state final teams – two in volleyball and two in basketball.
“I don’t think anyone ever thought we could do it, so much doubt throughout these years so making it to four state tournaments from this school is something I will never forget,” Sheehan said.
Sheehan missed much of the postseason because of an injury but remained on the bench all the way to the finish.
Senior Maddie Malinwoski said it’s an adjustment going from volleyball to basketball especially after going all the way to state.
“(It’s) the most in shape you have to be, it’s so different two different sports, running and jumping and then actually coming in and start sprinting,” Malinwoski said. “It’s really hard to adjust to but we did it.”
Principal Sean Foster said it was a great to see three Saints’ girls teams advance to state this year.
The volleyball team finished fourth in November, while the girl’s tennis team took third at state in October.
“We are very fortunate, very blessed to have a lot of talented students and this year in particular,” Foster said.
Athletic Director Doug Atkins said the Saints coaches help foster success by encouraging students to play multiple sports.
“They share the athletes and I think that’s why you see various athletes having multiple state championships around their neck,” Atkins said.
Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].