DARLINGTON — Coming off a conference championship and a trip to sectionals, the Redbirds are ready for more.

Darlington went 19-5 overall and was knocked out of the playoffs by eventual state champ La Crosse Aquinas in the sectional semifinal, but returns a wealth of talent and experience this season.

“Our goals are to compete for a SWAL conference title and extend our season beyond last year,” Redbirds coach Kelly Rose said.

Returning for Darlington is first-team all-conference seniors Kathleen Mathias and Kaylee Meyers. Seven other players return from last year’s varsity squad, and two newcomers — juniors Aliyah Gould and Allison Thompson — look to be a part of the action.

“This year’s team strengths include speed, competitiveness, intensity, scoring and defensive pressure,” Rose said.

Meyers averaged a team-high 17.8 points per game last season, with Mathias at 12.1 ppg. Bethany McDonald (7.0 ppg), Casey Glendenning (6.3 ppg) and Reagan Crist (4.2 ppg) are also coming back. Darlington outscored opponents by an average of 59.4-45.7.

“One challenge may be introducing new game plans based on current team personnel,” Rose admitted. “I think we will have the opportunity to fine-tune skills on both sides of the ball.”

Rose expects a dogfight for the SWAL title, with teams like Riverdale, Boscobel, Mineral Point and Cuba City all contending with Darlington.

To prep for another deep postseason run, Darlington has SWC rivals Lancaster, Platteville, Dodgeville and Richland Center on the schedule, as well as a Feb. 11 home game against Black Hawk — the second to last game of the year. A season ago, the Warriors beat up on the Redbirds 58-39.