For Jessica Lenihan, being named the new girl's basketball coach at Greencastle truly is a dream come true and something she has dreamed of since she was a little girl.
Lenihan has been promoted up the bench from assistant to head coach, replacing Doug Greenlee and inheriting a team that went 22-5 and lost to Forest Park in the Class 2A semi-state.
"It is truly an honor to have earned this title. I have high hopes for the future of this program -- one of them being consistency in the coaching staff. Keeping this hire in-house was of the utmost importance for the program because it provides consistency for these girls. Some of these girls have had a new coach each year they have played high school basketball. Inconsistency in a coaching staff can be difficult for the players when they are constantly faced with learning new plays and meeting new expectations. Entering into my third year of coaching in this program, the majority of the girls can rest assured, already knowing what to expect from me. In the years to come, I look forward to strengthening our bond as a team and continuing the growth of what has already been planted," Lenihan said.
In addition to serving as an assistant coach, Lenihan was a standout player for the Tiger Cubs and admits being named head coach is a "full circle moment" for her.
"It is a full-circle moment returning to the program that has gifted me with such fond memories. After graduating from Greencastle High School, I knew I wanted to give back to the program that shaped me into the person I am today, and it is unbelievable that I now get that chance. Having had successful seasons as a student athlete in this program myself, I strive to build a foundation that fosters the skill and grit needed to ensure that this program will flourish in the years to come. It is my goal to make this program one that Putnam County is proud of," she said.
As for what fans can expect when the season begins, Lenihan said her team will be one full of student athletes who "play their hearts out."
"They can expect that as head coach, I will push these girls to their full potential, giving them the tools they need to be successful on and off the court. Hard work and dedication will be at the forefront of our team, and I believe this will easily translate to the fans. As a coach, all I ask for is hustle and heart out on that court and the rest will fall into place," Lenihan admitted.
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