DARLINGTON —  With seven returning letter winners from last year’s 16-10 squad, the Redbirds look to continue trending upward. Each year under head coach Brad Solberg, Darlington has steadily improved.

“We have a group of kids that are hungry to do the things it takes to win,” Solberg said. “The group is an unselfish bunch that wants what’s best for the team. They have great chemistry on and off the floor. We will look to build upon that.”

Despite losing back-to-back first-team all-conference selection Taylor Wedig and honorable mention all-conference Greta Volkening, Darlington returns senior Cayla Golackson. During her junior campaign, Golackson averaged 10 points and 7 rebounds per game to earn a spot on the SWAL first-team all-conference. Nearing graduation, she is getting attention from Division III and junior college schools.

The Redbirds also welcome back seniors Jaylyn Schwartz, Mady Wedig and Gabriellelle Leuchtenmacher and juniors Jaidyn Evenstad, Zoie Zuberbuhler and Aubrey McCarthy.

Kylie Butler — the youngest sibling to 1,000-point scorers at Black Hawk Paige, Hannah, Heath and Bailey — transferred to Darlington this year and could also make significant contributions to the team. 

With 13 on the roster, the Redbirds have tons of depth, which will lead to advantages on both the offense and defense.

“We will be athletic and deep which should allow us to play disruptive defense,” Solberg said. “This should allow us to gain some extra possessions on the offensive end.” 

Mineral Point, defending Division 4 state champions and SWAL conference champions, remain in contention for the conference title this year. Cuba City is also on Solberg’s radar, as they are “young, talented and now experienced.”