BOZEMAN — At Bozeman High School, the girls basketball players were finally back on the court for the first time since COVID-19 with their three-day camp that concluded Friday. For the players and coaches, they’re just happy to be back.
“I think everybody was pretty open to this opportunity," said Bozeman head coach Erika Gustavsen. "Three days to come play basketball for a couple hours -- so far it’s been pretty good.”
Everyone loves their families, but it’s nice to get out and put the ball through the net again
"Everybody had a lot of quality family time," Gustavsen said. "I think everybody was ready to come see their friends and just get out and get moving. Some normalcy.”
The players are more than happy to be back around each other on the court
“I’m just super thankful that we have an opportunity to actually play this summer," said Bozeman High senior Macy Mayer. "I wasn't sure if we would be able to, so it will be fun to take advantage of these opportunities and be able to play with our teammates and get better over the summer.”
Despite the uncertainty due to COVID-19, the players will enjoy the opportunity to play basketball. This weekend the team heads to Carroll College for scrimmages.
“Still worried our season might not be normal, not having spectators and stuff, but I think it will be good. I’m just glad I get to have this experience and get somewhat of a summer season,” said Bozeman High senior Gabby Klein.
Being away from the game and familiar faces for so long, it made players and coaches realize what it all means to them.
“I think just that social interaction and those relationships that we have, makes you really appreciate them and realize that you genuinely like being around these girls -- like being around the court -- how much the game of basketball brings to everybody's life,” Gustavsen said.
Lastly, the team is doing what they can to ensure they stay safe for their ultimate goal.
“We had a task force created through our school district," said Gustavsen. "We have a symptom sheet the kids have to sign every day. Obviously lots of hand-washing, hand-sanitizing. The ultimate goal is to be able to play during the school year, so we want to make sure we’re doing the right things to allow that to happen.”
