Rochester Girls Best Wildcats
By Megan Harvey

On the last Saturday in 2006, the Concord Wildcats braved the snow and made the long trip to Rochester’s gym for a 12:00 game. The Rockets won handily, 55-22.

Rochester’s Head Coach Julie Martin mixed her starting line up and put senior Elizabeth White and sophomore Midori Cruikshank as starters for the first time this season. Within the first five minutes of the game, Cruikshank slammed in four consecutive foul shots to jump start the Rockets into the game. The first quarter buzzer read 16–5, Rochester.

The second quarter brought out more of Rochester’s talent, as the Rockets continued their full court press. Desiree Bourassa continued to make incredibly sharp passes down under the rim to assist in some key plays. Libby White swooshed a two pointer from within the three point line to bring the crowd to its feet. The half ended in Rochester’s favor at a score of 31–10.

During the third quarter, the Wildcats came out clawing. But soon, Rochester made the necessary adjustments and Erica Parker played smothering defense against Concord, forcing many turnovers to Rochester’s advantage. With both teams scoring nine points in this quarter, the score that opened the fourth quarter was 40–19, Rochester.

In the fourth quarter, Rochester brought out its fierce side once again and continued to pull away from Concord. Sam Mishkit made a crisp pass to Heather Gorton, who then put up a reversal that drew a "wow" from the crowd.

Jody Martin had 10 points throughout the game. Sam Cutting put in 15 points herself, matching Mishkit’s 15 points as well. The final score was 55–22, Rochester.

Lead scorer for Concord was Krista Young with eight points.

Rochester’s next game is today, Thursday, Jan. 4, on the road at Blue Mountain.