Kirtland Community College

Sports News Release

10775 N. St. Helen Road, Roscommon, MI 48653 (989) 275-5000     kirtland.edu
Subject: Kirtland Lady ‘Birds lose to Mott
For Release: Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005 		Office: Public Relations 
Contact: Irene Borak, (989) 275-5000 Ext. 242

Kirtland Lady ‘Birds drop ball to Mott
ROSCOMMON – Despite Amanda Cooper sailing in six three-point shots and a total of 22 points for the Kirtland Lady Firebirds, they still took a 91-67 loss to the Eastern Conference’s second-place team, Mott Community College on Wednesday, Jan. 19, in Roscommon.

Trailing only by 7 at the half, the Firebirds turned in a gritty performance, despite the final score.

“We gave the best team in the conference a run for their money for 34 minutes,” said Firebirds coach Teresa Stuck. “We just need to learn to win.

“As a young team, we played them down to the wire, but then cracked under the pressure and turned the ball over too much when it mattered.”

Cooper’s performance stood out despite the loss.

“She gave an all-out effort and really played smart,” Stuck said about the sophomore from Harrison. “Her teammates really did a nice job too of recognizing she was hot offensively. They got her open and got her the ball. I am proud of the team for recognizing that without forcing things – we are definitely getting smarter.”

For the Firebirds, Kenzie Steward added 12 points and 6 rebounds, while Nynne Larsen netted 10 points and 3 steals.

“Felon Harris took very good care of the basketball for us, with 7 points, 5 assists and 3 steal,” Stuck added, noting that Meghan Bastian had 7 rebounds and that Ashley Andrews stepped up her game.

“I am proud of how we have played in the last couple games,” Stuck said. “If we keep playing that hard, the tide is bound to turn. We are learning more every game and soon that’s going to turn to a victory.”

The Firebirds continue to play at home, hosting Alpena Community College on Saturday, Jan. 22, with game time at 1 p.m. at the CRAF Center. On Wednesday, Jan. 26, they host Macomb Community College with tip off at 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday, Jan. 29, Wayne County Community College comes to town with game time at 1 p.m.