A season ago, South Putnam featured a girl's basketball team that was long on promise and short on experience, and it showed at various times. 

After a strong 2-0 start, the Eagles endured a six game skid in the middle of the season en route to an 8-16 record last season. 

"Last season was a good year with a very young inexperienced team at the varsity level.  We were able to grow a lot as the season went on and became a lot more comfortable with the speed of the varsity game," head coach Brian Gardner told The Putnam County Post.

Heading into this year, Gardner and South Putnam are coming in with lofty goals after a strong offseason that featured a lot of games and a Division I team camp in Fort Wayne, along with the Eagles playing in their summer league. 

"This allowed us to get a better feel for everyone in new roles. Several of the girls played in fall sports and had good seasons, which I believe will benefit the basketball team a lot. I believe well rounded athletes are who you need on your teams," Gardner said. 

South Putnam brings back some talent and experience this season, beginning with senior forward Joscelyn Pilcher, who played a lot of big minutes last season. Joining her will be junior point guard Danae Cline, junior guard Chlara Pistelli, junior post player Madison Gardner and junior guard Lilly Emmerich. 

When it comes to goals, Gardner believes his squad can compete for various titles this year.

"This season, I believe we will look to compete in the county, conference and sectional. For us to do that, our team has to be able to take care of the ball, play at a pace that works for us and does the little things well. Our goals are to get better every day and be playing the best basketball at sectional time to give us the best chance to win a sectional," Gardner said.