THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College threw a party Tuesday for its newest national champions.
The women’s basketball team was honored with a community pep rally in Guitteau Gymnasium. The event featured food; music; performances by the EAC Cheer squad; short speeches from school administration, players and coaches; and autographs by the players.
EAC President Todd Haynie said the women’s accomplishment elevates the stature of the school, and shows what can be accomplished at a small rural college.
“You know, it’s really about changing lives, the whole thing,” Haynie said. “It’s changing the lives of the student athlete, it’s changing the lives of those who comes to EAC because of the programs that we have available — whether it’s an athletic program, or whether it’s an academic program, or both.”
The Gila Monsters finished the season with a 33-2 record, capped by a 57-51 win over the New Mexico Junior College Dragons in the NJCAA Division 1 championship game on March 31.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Head Coach Angelica de Paulo will lose 10 players off the championship roster next year, and has already started the recruitment process. She said defending a national title will add some extra pressure, “but next year is a whole different season, with a whole different mentality, but the goal is going to be the same goal.”
One of those players leaving is tournament MVP Esmeralda Enriquez, who said she’s still undecided on which school she will choose.
“I have picked up five different offers from the tournament,” Enriquez said. “I’m looking to take a couple visits in order to make my decision.”
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
