As our basketball season comes to an end, we’re proud, not just of how our teams competed, but of the way our whole community showed up. Players put in the work. Coaches invested deeply. Families filled the gym. It’s been a full season, and one that reflects what makes Trinity special.
At the girls’ end-of-season pizza celebration, several seniors shared that what they were most proud of wasn’t a particular game, but the way they learned to truly play together. Over the course of the season, they became closer and more unified. Coach Kelsey Byrd talks before every game about four keys, and the first is always “Team First.” You could see it in their defense—players talking, rotating, and covering for one another. And you could see it in the small gestures too: teammates standing, cheering, and high-fiving every single player as she came off the court.
That mindset was especially clear in their final game. Even when they were down, the effort stayed high and the attitude stayed steady. The focus wasn’t on the score, it was on how they could show up for each other and finish well. Several players spoke about how much the team grew together this year.
Assistant coach and Trinity dad Doug Fabel noticed something similar. Last year, one player was often the one giving shooting tips and encouraging teammates. This year, that leadership spread. Two sophomores stepped in more often to help and encourage, especially supporting new players as they transitioned from homeschooling into high school athletics. The girls genuinely think of themselves as a family. It’s not unusual to hear them shout “Family!” after a timeout or break into Sister Sledge during practice. There’s a sense that they’re building something together.
On the boys’ side, Coach Matt Dumbauld shared how encouraging it’s been to see the individual work players are putting in to improve. Over the season, he’s seen real growth in communication, confidence, and the ability to function as a team. He’s also proud of the hustle and pride shown by our middle school teams and grateful for the coaches investing in them.
Reflecting on the year, Coach Matt said: “This has been a significant year of growth. We learned many valuable lessons, including some difficult ones from games that didn't go our way. The fact that our team never gave up or felt sorry for themselves while navigating these challenges convinces me that we have a bright future.”
One highlight he didn’t hesitate to name: the fans. In his words, “Best fans in our league without a doubt.” The support and energy in the gym matter. Our players feel it.
This season included hard games and tough lessons. But neither team backed down. They kept working, kept encouraging one another, and kept showing up. That’s what makes Trinity basketball distinctive. It’s competitive and disciplined, but it’s also relational. Thank you to our coaches, families, and fans for making this season what it was. And congratulations to our players on a year of steady, meaningful growth.
