Christina Romero attends Rio Rico High School and is a member of the AIA's Student SID Program.

 

In a breathtaking season opener, the Rio Rico girls basketball team pulled off an incredible victory against Eastmark with a final score of 47-45. The Firebirds ended last season as state runner-ups in the 4A conference, making this a powerful statement win for the Hawks. 

Following the win, senior Ashley Yocupicio earned Rio Rico High School's Top Hawk of the Week award after accounting for 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. Her dominant performance personified the team's energized dedication that helps set the foundation for the upcoming season.

"It's always good to start off on a winning note," says head coach, Frank Arellano, "when they see their hard work that they put into it, for them it's like 'hey, this is why I do all of this.' That is where their winning attitude comes from." 

Coach Arellano hopes to emphasize the importance of the team's positive mindset after the win. Although they were already confident heading into the game, the triumph over Eastmark gave a renewed sense of determination for the season ahead.

Next, the Hawks look to maintain this momentum as they take on the Nogales Apaches on the road. There is no doubt that it will be a heated matchup, but Coach Arellano's game-winning approach remains the same. 

"They are definitely rivals, but at the end of the day, it doesn't matter who it is. You want to win every game," he says. "That's why you play a competitive sport - to win."