I am pleased and excited to host one of the top 2A programs in the state in the Miami Lady Vandals. The Lady Vandals are led by Head Coach Crystal Pietila who previously led the San Carlos Lady Braves. Her Lady Vandals play very uptempo and get after it defensively. Here is the Q&A from our conversation:
Q: What was your overall record last season?
A: Our overall record was 19-5 during the 2021-22 season.
Q: How deep into the playoffs did you and your team go?
A: After winning one game in the 2020-21 season, our girls finished the regular season ranked 6th overall. We lost by two points in overtime of the first round of the playoffs to Arete Prep.
Q: How does it feel to be invited to the 2nd Annual Arizona Preps Summer Clash? What makes this event stand out to you and your girls?
A: It is energizing for our program to be invited to such a competitive showcase of talent. In the past it was hard to get teams to agree to play us. With our recent success, it is an honor to be included amongst some of the top teams in the state.
Q: Who are your top players to watch for? Do they have college offers?
A: Demetria Dosela was named the 2022 2A South Player of the Year, as well as the 2A Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Savannah Pietila and Layla Thompson were named 1st team All-Region for the 2A South, and Honorable Mention for the 2A conference. Leeyah Goss was also named 2nd Team All Region for the 2A South.
Q: What is the goal for your team heading into this summer?
A: Our goal for this summer is to continue to build camaraderie. We enjoy matching up against unfamiliar opponents and different styles, as each team we face in the regular season will have their own identity. It is nice to be able to go back and reference similar opponents that we've faced and compare results of other teams compared to ours. The summer gives us the flexibility to play some teams we have no chance of scheduling during the regular season. This serves as a measuring stick of where we are at now, and give an idea of what we should be reinforcing, and improving on in the off-season.
Coach Pietila does a fantastic job with her teams. Her teams play hard and defend, which disrupts the flow of the opposing team’s offensive rhythm. The result is a lot of offensive transition opportunities. We are excited to have the Lady Vandals compete in the Summer Clash, as they have a solid young core of talent.
