Five Spartans make all-league teams, girls basketball gears up for season opener
(Photo by MARY MALONE) From left: freshman Ethan Korff, junior Graden Hanes, freshman Dylan Lord, junior Annika Rantala and senior Sharnai Hogan attempt to pose for a group photo after receiving awards at the Priest River cross country awards night Friday.
A pair of Lady Spartan cross country runners were named to the 3A All-Intermountain League team for their efforts this season.
Junior Annika Rantala and senior Sharnai Hogan were the girls that earned spots on the 12 athlete team.
Rantala had an impressive season, winning the individual regional championship and placing 10th at the 3A state finals in Pocatello.
Rantala was Priest River’s strongest runner and she will have a chance to defend her district title and improve her finish at state in her senior season next year.
Hogan was a consistent contributor to the Spartans success all season, capturing fifth at districts and taking 23rd at state.
In an email, Priest River cross country coach Lance Clark wrote that he is proud of Annika and Rantala for making the team.
“I am very happy with both Annika and Sharnai’s success this year,” he wrote. “Both of these girls work so hard in practice and when it gets tough, they get tougher. They have complemented each other as teammates by challenging each other throughout the season in workouts and races. Good for you girls for making the all-league team this year.”
All-league volleyball
Seniors Natalie Randolph and Maggee Pankoke and sophomore Harlee Meek all earned spots on the 3A All-Intermountain League volleyball team.
Girls basketball opens season Tuesday
Priest River girls basketball will open its season on the road against Wallace at 7 p.m. Tuesday.
The Spartans home opener is set for 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 against Lakeside.