Chester Junior-Senior High School’s basketball program is celebrating a successful season, with both the girls and boys varsity teams achieving impressive records. The girls varsity team, consisting of eleven players, boasts a 13-8 overall record and remains undefeated in division seven play with a 6-0 record. They are currently ranked second in the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Northern Section. Meanwhile, the boys varsity team, with twelve players, holds a 16-9 overall record and a 7-4 standing within division seven, placing them third in the CIF Northern Section.
Coach Ty Watkins expressed optimism about the future of both teams, highlighting individual and collective achievements. For the girls, freshman point guard Hailey Delong has led the team in assists, while team captains Sarah Branch, a senior, and junior Aryanna Boatright have made significant contributions. Boatright, along with freshmen Aubrey Nashlund and Stevie Kuersten, has been instrumental in rebounding. Freshman Jenna Schlueter recently became the team’s leading scorer.
“The strength of this team lies in its balance,” Watkins stated. “Every player contributes in scoring, rebounding, and assisting, creating a well-rounded and cohesive unit. The presence of skilled freshmen also promises a bright future for the program.”
On the boys’ side, the team’s three junior captains have been pivotal. Grady Klimek has averaged 20 points and 15 rebounds per game, Caiden Clark leads in steals with three per game, and Carter McCann has averaged five assists per game. McCann and Clark have also achieved a 30% success rate in three-point shots, totaling nearly 90 successful attempts this season.
CHS Athletic Director Terry Hernandez emphasized the broader impact of sports on students, noting, “Basketball, like other sports, teaches students discipline, commitment, teamwork, and time management. Nearly all our student-athletes maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher, placing them on the honor roll.”
Watkins further recognized the development of adaptability, decision-making under pressure, and work ethic through athletic participation. “Our student-athletes are expected to attend school not only on game days but also the following day, which keeps them accountable and academically responsible,” he added.
Senior Night is scheduled for February 13, with both teams set to compete against Redding Christian. The girls varsity game will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the boys varsity game at 6:30 p.m. Admission is priced at $5 for adults and $3 for students.
