skip navigation

GIRLS BASKETBALL: All Inter-Ac 2021 Girls Basketball Team

By John Knebels, 04/17/21, 11:45AM EDT

Share

After Shortened Season, Inter-Ac Still Talking Hoops

By: John Knebels

Photos: Zamani Feelings & Patty Morgan 

2021 Inter-Ac Round-Up: Winter has given way to spring. Sports such as baseball, softball, lacrosse, and track invite fans to enjoy an outdoor breeze and milder temperatures.

Yet, basketball remains a conversation piece more than a month after completion. Because of schedule interruptions and postponements that ultimately resulted in cancellations, a sense of unfinished business still festers.

No league was more affected by the combination of COVID and weather issues than the Inter-Academic League. While most other leagues were able to play as many as 19 games thanks to playoffs, districts, and the PIAA state tournament, not one Inter-Ac program was able to reach double digits.

And so, in deference to the seven girls’ teams that comprise the Inter-Ac, here is one last look at what occurred between February 3 and February 28. 

Sometimes, One Word is All it Takes

Yes. The entire Inter-Ac schedule was comprised of only 26 days. Because of that, Notre Dame Academy, Germantown Academy, and Episcopal each missed three games; Penn Charter missed four; Baldwin School, Springside Chestnut Hill, and Agnes Irwin missed a whopping five.

Throughout consistent frustration and periodic dead ends, athletic directors tried their best to schedule as many games as possible. Coaches were unable to practice as much as they preferred. Players experienced less time to physically recover from oft-challenging battles.

However, the clear consensus among the league’s coaches and players was that they were very grateful for even having a season, which through January hung precariously on the chopping block.

Each Inter-Ac coach was recently asked to choose one word that summarized a season like no other, one that began during a global pandemic and finished during a global pandemic, with literally a daily fear that the league might shut down at any moment because of a COVID outbreak small or large, or contract tracing deemed too dangerous to ignore.

Germantown Academy’s Sherri Retif selected “rollercoaster.” Penn Charter’s Joe Maguire went with “resilience.” Notre Dame coach Lauren Power chose “unparalleled.” Episcopal’s Chuck Simmonds registered “needed.” Baldwin’s John Bernhardt picked “adjustments.” Springside Chestnut Hill’s Florence Hagains preferred “camaraderie.” Agnes Irwin’s Andrea Carter opted for “bittersweet.”

Accurately vivid descriptions all.

No Inter-Ac Champion? Well . . .

Though it will never be definitive because league officials determined before the season that no champion would be crowned this year, the unofficial co-champions of the Inter-Ac were Notre Dame and Penn Charter. Both teams finished with a three-game lead over third-place Germantown Academy, and both teams twice defeated the almost-annual defending champ. Too, their only loss was against each other, and by almost the exact same margin of victory. 

On Feb. 9, Notre Dame defeated the visiting Quakers, 54-48; on February 25, Penn Charter turned the tables, edging the Fighting Irish, 61-57.

“Three weeks, nine games – that was our season,” said Notre Dame coach Lauren Power, whose Fighting Irish won their first six and finished 8-1. “We wanted more. We wanted the opportunity to hang a banner, which hasn’t been done here since 1999. And in the midst of the unprecedented challenges, and unforgettable lessons, this team played and battled with more heart and soul than I’ve ever seen In my 16 years of coaching. 

“The Irish played as if it was their last game ever, and for three seniors, it was. We don’t need a title to know that these women I had the honor of coaching will forever be champions in life.”

On 2/11, Notre Dame defeated Germantown Academy 67-35 - See Highlights by John Knebels

Penn Charter’s 7-1 finish gave the Quakers a dazzling 32-5 mark over the past two seasons.

“As different as the season was, it was nice to be together as a team and have some normalcy for those two hours a day we were in the gym,” said coach Joe Maguire. “I was so happy for our seniors that they had a Senior Day and had the opportunity to play this season. I really enjoyed seeing younger players step up and grow as players and leaders in their new roles this year. They really took advantage of the opportunities that they had. 

“The girls believed in each other and played for one another. No one cared who got the credit – just that we played hard and won games. I’m sad to say goodbye to our seniors who have helped build our program to what it is today. They bought in, competed every day, and showed the underclassmen what it takes to win at this level. I’m excited for what is to come for our program and to see the younger players grow and develop themselves and their games further.”

Germantown Academy endured a major challenge of losing most of last year’s perennial championship team to graduation. The Patriots’ 5-4 record included a heartbreaking four-point loss to Penn Charter in the season opener. Senior Jess Moore, sophomore Kendall Bennett, freshman Jess Aponik, and frosh Sam Wade (14 points in an impressive win over Episcopal) established the foundation.

“If ever there were lessons on perseverance, this year offered a myriad of opportunities for growth,” said Retif, who finished her 23rdseason at the helm. ”That said, I am truly grateful we had some sort of season.

“Personally, I'm impressed with the administration's determination to push forward and allow the students to play even with all the stop and goes and ups and downs. It's been a delicate balance of recognizing our students’ emotional needs as well as mitigating COVID exposure for them and their family members.   

On 2/4, Penn Charter opened league play with a 64-60 comeback victory vs. Germantown Academy - See Highlights by Patty Morgan

“Thinking back to October, the return to play proposal included two pages of COVID guidelines such as mandatory masks, duck walks to weight benches, no celebrations, no trips, no scrimmages, and roster limitations to name a few. Unfortunately, after the first game, I received an anonymous complaint that I fist bumped players as they were coming off the court . . . thankfully, my athletic director reassured me that he was aware of how hard we were working to keep our players safe.

“Another huge hurdle during the season was limited bench personnel of 15 coaches/players per game. We realized that for the entire season, we would have to leave one player or coach behind. That was a particularly hard decision when we were only playing a third of our usual season. Fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately, injuries and illness resolved the situation. Overall, the biggest challenge for me as a coach was dealing with masks.  My concerns included the possibility of hyperventilation and, of course, lack of court communication . . . but we all adapted and pushed forward. Everyone was kept safe, and we were able to compete against some of the best talent in the area.”

Episcopal Academy snared three of its last five after a 1-4 start. The upset-minded Churchmen took Notre Dame to the brink in their season finale before succumbing, 61-55.

“Episcopal finished its season in a flurry,” said coach Chuck Simmonds. “We were able to celebrate a Senior Day versus Baldwin, honoring Allie BushCaroline McCreary, and Allie Sillo. The seniors were all key contributors in the (51-38) win, with Allie knocking down four threes for 12 points, and Caroline and Allie Bush making key defensive and offensive contributions throughout the game. We finished the season at Notre Dame in an exciting overtime battle. We fell behind by 17 in the second quarter but chipped away at the lead, eventually gaining the lead in the fourth quarter. Notre Dame made a clutch basket to send the game to OT, where they pulled out a 61-55 win. 

“Big thanks to our athletic staff and trainers to help us get some games in this season.”

Baldwin School improved throughout its campaign. During the Polar Bears’ 2-5 performance, they lost 36-30 to Episcopal, 57-46 against Germantown Academy, 58-44 at Penn Charter, and suffered a gut-wrenching 51-50 defeat against visiting Notre Dame.

“That was really a tough one to say the least,” said Bernhardt. “I felt bad for the girls. They played as well as anyone could ask. Super proud of them, though. We’ve come a long way since I got here three years ago. I just want them to get the big win they deserve. They’ve been grinding away for the past three years and a loss like that really stung.”

The Polar Bears earned respect throughout the league.

“It was long ‘short’ season, if that makes sense,” said Bernhard with a chuckle. “It was a season of ups and downs. But I’m just happy we got to play. The girls thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and it was a great way to end their careers for the seniors. The girls worked extremely hard from the beginning of the season until the very end, and I’m super appreciative of that. They did whatever they were called upon to do and rolled with the punches constantly. 

“The one thing which I really enjoyed about this season was the shot clock, and it really helped for games to be played with a better pace.”

Springside Chestnut Hill bookended its 2-5 mark with 41-29 and 44-40 triumphs over Agnes Irwin. 

“This was a very short and crazy season, but it was a good start for us,” said coach Florence Hagains. “Having such a young team with some injuries, I’m very proud of how we started and finished strong in our last game turn-around win. 

“I see so much potential, and knowing what next year will look like excites me. I’m proud of all the girls dedicating themselves to every practice and wanting to learn.There were some that had to play out of their comfort zone.”

Agnes Irwin wasn’t able to garner a victory in seven attempts. However, the Owls’ offense improved down the stretch. After averaging 20 in their initial four contests, the Owls increased their margin to 30 points per game over their final three. They came oh-so-close to winning their finale against Springside Chestnut Hill, dropping a 44-40 decision.

“It’s definitely hard to play in this league when basketball is none of our main sports,” said AI senior Paige Crowther, who in the fall will begin her lacrosse career at the University of Oregon. “Before every game, we would say something along the lines of ‘It’s time to shock the world,’ because no matter who the opponent, we would give it our all to win even if every time we have played that school it has been a 40-point loss. 

“Although this is hard, as a team we try not to pay attention to the score, but instead just give everything we have because that’s really all that matters. If we know we are working hard and doing the little things right, those are wins for us even if the score doesn’t show it.”

No All-League Selections? Think again

Since the Inter-Ac decided before the season there would be no official all-league team, below is the PhiladelphiaSportsDigest’s All-Inter-Academic League squad with corresponding comments from their respective coaches. No league MVP was selected, but team MVP’s would be those listed first. 

FIRST TEAM

Maeve McErlane, Notre Dame, junior, 5-9 guard –The DePaul University commit was electric, averaging 21.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 2.4 steals . . . Shot 35.8 from three-point distance. 

Coach Lauren Power: “Maeve is simply sensational – a fierce competitor who battles at both ends of the floor and has elevated our program in every way because of her work ethic, heart, incredible talent and next level mindset.” 

Anajah Brown, Baldwin, senior, 6-1 forward/center –Signed with Siena after averaging 17.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks. 

Coach John Bernhardt: “Anajah has been the epitome of a team MVP over the past three seasons for Baldwin. She has been a tremendous leader for our program both on and off the court.”

Notre Dame junior standout Maeve McErlane: “You can put three or four girls on her, but Anajah is unstoppable. You don’t understand her strength unless you play against her on defense.”

Aleah Snead, Penn Charter, sophomore, 5-11 guard –Averaged 14.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 4.5 steals. Has scored 484 points in two years. St. Joseph’s and Rhode Island have already offered scholarships. 

Coach Joe Maguire: “The sky is the limit for Aleah. She impacts the game on both ends of the court. She can do it all on the court and with her work ethic. She’s only going to continue to grow as a player and leader.”

Jessica Moore, Germantown Academy, senior, 6-0 guard – Averaged 14.1 points and connected on over 40 percent of her three-point attempts. 

Coach Sherri Retif: “Jessica was our most outstanding offensive player. She's an excellent role model for our younger players and a quality person. Carnegie Mellon is her top choice.”


Maeve McErlane #13 averaged 21.4 points for the Irish this season and was named to PSD's All Inter-Ac first team - PSD Photo by Patty Morgan


No. 21 Anajah Brown (Baldwin) an All Inter-Ac first team selection guards No. 21 Ava Chavez (SCHA) who is a PSD All Inter-Ac honorable mention - Photo Zamani Feelings

Bella Toomey, Penn Charter, sophomore, 6-0 guard/forward –Averaged 13.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 3.1 blocks, and 3.1 steals.

 Coach Joe Maguire: “Bella is just scratching the surface of her potential. Her effort on both ends is what makes her a great player and I knew she would produce this year with a bigger role.”

Izzy Casale, Notre Dame, senior, 5-2 guard – Averaged 6.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 3.1 steals, and 3.1 deflections, 3.1. Shot 81 percent from the foul line.

Coach Lauren Power: “When you watch Notre Dame play you’ll see a feisty, scrappy and relentless group of undersized ballers with 5-2 senior guard Izzy Casale leading the way with her energy and fearless spirit that will no doubt be incredibly hard to replace.”

SECOND TEAM

Riley Cassidy, Episcopal, junior, 5-9 guard –Averaged 13 points and 4.5 rebounds. 

Coach Chuck Simmonds: "Riley is a competitor, and she became a much more consistent scorer who continues to develop her range and ability to attack. Riley offered flexibility with a skill set to play multiple positions.”

Gaeli Keffer-Scharpf, Episcopal, sophomore, 6-2, forward – Averaged 6.6 points and 4.5 rebounds.

Coach Chuck Simmonds: “Gaeli is multi-skilled offensively while providing the backbone to our team defense. She played her best against some of the Inter-Ac's best post players.”

Kendall Bennett, Germantown Academy, sophomore, 6-2 center – Averaged 9 points and 8 rebounds.

Coach Sherri Retif: “Kendall was the floor leader on defense. The growth in her game and her contributions on the court from freshman to sophomore year was exceptional.  Her game has a very high ceiling.”

Kelsey Bess, Penn Charter, sophomore, 5-11 forward –Despite missing time with a concussion, posted averages of 13 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.1 steals. Quakers are 55-12 overall and 26-6 in the league since she started in eighth grade, during which she has tallied 627 points.

Coach Joe Maguire: “Kelsey has such a high basketball IQ. She knows how to set her moves up for later in the game. She is so skilled on the offensive end, and she makes her teammates better.”

Jess Aponik, Germantown Academy, freshman, 5-10 guard –Shot 50% from the floor, 75% from the line, and led the Patriots in assists.    

Coach Sherri Retif: As a freshman, Jessica was an impact player. She has a high basketball IQ. She effortlessly sees the court and can score off the bounce or behind the arc.”


EA's Riley Cassidy (#5), a second team All Inter-Ac selection, guards Notre Dame's Katie Halligan (#42) who was named to PSD's All Inter-Ac honorable mention list - Photo Patty Morgan


GA's Kendall Bennett (#24), a second team All Inter-Ac selection, attempts a quick pass against PSD first team selection, Aleah Snead (#11, PC) - Photo Patty Morgan

Julia Dever, Notre Dame, junior, 5-5 guard – Averaged 7.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 2.7 steals.

Coach Lauren Power: Every successful team needs a great point guard, and we have that in Julia Dever – our floor general. She’s the glue to our success and the difference maker.” 

HONORABLE MENTION

Amanda Purcell, Episcopal, junior, 5-9 guard –Averaged 9 points and led the team in plus/minus ratio. 

Coach Chuck Simmonds:Amanda plays with a fire and was able to play the point or the off-guard spot. Her flexibility at the guard spot is a big asset that allowed for her skill set to be on the floor with different combinations.”

Kait Hnatkowsky, Penn Charter, senior, 5-7 guard

Coach Joe Maguire: “Kait is the type of player that is on winning teams. She is great at her role and does all the things that don’t show up in the boxscore.”

Katie Halligan, Notre Dame, sophomore, 5-11 forward – Averaged 8.5 points and 6.1 rebounds.

Coach Lauren Power: “Katie is mature beyond her years, both as a player and a leader, and has been steadily improving since the day she walked through the doors, with her best basketball still ahead of her.”

Paige Crowther, Agnes Irwin, senior, 5-11 center

Coach Andrea Carter:She has played varsity all four years; she was a swing player her freshman year. She has been a captain for the last two years. She is the heart of this team, like our battery back. She never quits, never gives up, no matter the score. She works extremely hard. A great leader.Despite being one of the top lacrosse goalies in the country and an Oregon commit, she gives that same effort and commitment at basketball.She would come to open gyms and workouts before lacrosse tournaments so she could get better and show her commitment to our program.She leads by example. She comes from a great family who is very supportive and pushes her to be her best in both sports.” 

Ava Chavez, Springside Chestnut Hill, sophomore, 5-7 guard – Inseason-ending, come-from-behind win over Agnes Irwin, the team captain scored in every quarter and contributed 20 points, three steals, and three-for-five shooting on threes. Junior teammate Maya McDermott (12 points, 8 assists, 6 rebounds) and sophomore Julia Thompson helped create numerous deflections and turnovers.

Coach Florence Hagains: “Ava is such an offensive threat. She provided most of our scoring.”

Kaya Weiser, Baldwin, junior, 5-6 guard –Team’s second leading scorer while running the point. Averaged 8.7 points and had 16 three-point field goals. 

Coach John Bernhardt – “Kaya had a great year. She was a true floor general for us while also playing tenacious defense.”


Agnes Irwin senior Paige Crowther was named as a PSD All Inter-Ac honorable mention - Photo by Zamani Feelings


Baldwin senior Kaya Weiser (No. 13) guarded by fellow All Inter-Ac honorable mention Ava Chavez (No. 21, SCH) - Photo by Zamani Feelings

(Contact John Knebels at Jknebels@gmail.com or on Twitter @johnknebels.)