Stampede finish in top four in two age groups
SAN MARCOS — The Marble Falls Stampede’s fifth- and sixth-graders came in fourth at a San Marcos tournament June 18-19 with two wins.
“It was exciting for the girls,” coach Renee Grumbles said.
Meanwhile, the Stampede’s third- and fourth-graders were third, going 3-2 at the event.
The victories for the fifth- and sixth-graders came against teams the Stampede already lost to earlier in the season.
One of the wins was against the San Marcos Lady Swish.
“The first time we played them, they beat us badly,” Grumbles said. “The second time, they beat us by one. And then we beat them by one.”
The other victory came against the Tricounty Longhorns.
“They had beaten us badly,” Grumbles said. “This time we went into overtime and beat them by three.”
Part of why the Stampede are experiencing success is because they are able to avoid turning over the ball because of 10-second violations, three-second lane violations and double dribbles, Grumbles said.
“There are so many fundamentals you have to break down with them,” she said. “Definitely, they’re grasping concepts.”
They were getting better each practice and game but didn’t get the reward of winning until this tournament. They were facing squads filled with players who had been playing together for several years.
“You could tell it was starting to get to them,” Grumbles said. “No matter how bad we were losing, the other teams’ parents and referees commented on how our girls never stopped fighting, they were still going 110 mph. They definitely have drive.”
Third- and fourth-grade coach Carrie Grona said her players’ willingness to learn the basics is leading to success.
They beat the Wall Hawks twice and the Terminators once at San Marcos.
“This group, no matter what, they never give up,” Grona said. “I have one of the most scrappiest teams I’ve ever had. That third and fourth grade is going to be a good group. They’re fun to watch and fun to be around.”
The Stampede will be at a Georgetown tournament June 25 to wrap up the season.
Grumbles said her players are sad to see it end.
“That tells me they’re having fun and enjoying it,” she said.