Coach Marc Urban, Physical Education, could finally breathe. After his team squeaked out a grueling 49-48 victory over the Penn Lady Kingsmen, Coach Urban could hardly suppress a grin of relief.
“You don’t come to Penn and win often. This year, it’s definitely our biggest win. Our girls came in and did a phenomenal job. The last three games have been good for us — all on the road, all against good teams. We’re just trying to get better,” Coach Urban said.
Prior to the contest, Penn was ranked No. 5 in the 4A ICGSA Poll. The Lady Indians came in at No. 12. When the squads faced off, the standings were left by the wayside.
“I was pleased with our girls [because] they were just basketball players, making a strong pass, presenting yourself and taking what they were giving us. I thought our girls did a really good job of that. They were just determined to get it done,” Coach Urban said.
Gina Rubino (12) and Tara Zlotkowski (12) propelled the Tribe’s attack. Rubino tallied 18 points, and Zlotkowski added 12. Their strategic plays in the final stretch paved a path to victory.
“My teammates had confidence in me. I gained confidence as the game picked up, and I was just feeling it from there. This was a great environment to be in. To put us back on the map, that [feels] great. We’re back doing what we do,” Rubino said.
The ladies’ performance spoke for itself. They left nothing to chance in Mishawaka. Their third win was aided by a last-minute adjustment before game day.
“Hoosiers [the movie] definitely got us going. It motivated us because we know what we’re capable of if we all play as a team, how we all know each other can [play]. We can do big things. We can go far,” Rubino said.
