Local Sports Journal

WHITEHALL – It was never in doubt Friday night as the Whitehall Vikings girls hoop squad raced out to the 24-3 first-quarter lead over Hart en route to the 58-18 victory over the Pirates in the West Michigan opener for both clubs.

The win capped for the Vikings a 2-0 start to the season, having won Tuesday’s opener 52-42 over Western Michigan Christian, Whitehall’s first season-opening win in four years.

“This has been a fun week,” said Whitehall head coach Rachel Kent. “The Lady Vikings are playing tougher than ever, on the floor, not letting opportunities pass us by. There is definite team chemistry and they are having fun playing together.”

Whitehall’s Emily MacArthur dominated the field, finishing with a game-high 22 points to go with five boards, while Jenna Pesch totaled 14 points, five rebounds, six steals and five assists.

Janelle Uganski finished with eight points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals, while teammate Christy Pladies totaled six points and six boards, and Charlie Bishop led the team with seven rebounds.

Anna Hertzler led Hart with six points, followed by Baylee Draper with four and Madison Hegedus with three.