By Paula Pyzik Scott

This year the Bluffton Middle School 8th grade girls basketball team had a perfect 19-0 season and is the 2023-2024 NWC conference champion. 

Coach Larry Hermiller told the Icon that the team's accomplishment is all the greater following an 11-8 season the prior year.

What makes this team special? He reflected, “ What makes them good is that they are a little ornery.” He has watched the group learn to work together and believe in themselves.

Other insights on the team dynamic: Hermiller lets the players warm up for 15 minutes to transition from the school day. During games, his message is “always take the open shot. I don’t care if it goes in.”

The 2023-2024 Bluffton Middle School Girls Basketball roster with uniform #’s:

• Maelee Miller - 4
• Carli Wise - 2
• Taylin Goldman - 23
• Jessa Swan - 0
• Lainey Grandey - 42
• Keyrsten Kleman - 1 
• Peyton Worcester - 33
• Camryn Fruchey - 3
• Mallary Blackburn - 5
• Alexis Mummert - 11
• Lilly Swartzmiller - 50
• Chesney Rodabaugh - 35
• Megan Follas - 30