At the end of announcements every day we hear the iconic phrase “Falcon Pride! Know it! Show it!” To most students at AHS, it’s just some silly, meaningless phrase adults say to get us involved in school activities. But to the athletes at AHS, it means so much more. It’s a chance to show the community that they take pride in their sport and in their school. No team displays more enthusiasm than our very own Lady Falcons basketball team!

The ladies team is currently ranked 9th in New York State thanks to the help of first year head varsity coach, Dexter “Decky” Lawson. When asked what pushed him to accept the job, Lawson replied, “I’ve been waiting on my shot for a long time and it actually just kind of fell into my lap. I love what I do. I’ve always had the respect from the lady’s basketball program, so it was a no-brainer to take the job. I knew I was ready.” The Nest is convinced that Coach Lawson is indeed ready.

The Falcons clinched their third consecutive Big Ten title on Tuesday night, beating the Troy Horses 63-51. Days before the game I asked team captain and leading scorer Emia Willingham-Hurst if she was confident that her team could take home another title.  She replied, “Yes, I’m confident in myself and my teammates.” Well, her prediction was right on. Willingham-Hurst is currently considering playing at high ranked schools such as UConn, Temple, UCF, and Alabama State.

Applause should also be given to Cara Waterson, Melissa Canty, Ayanna Hunter, India Terrell, Ariel Greer, Mylah Chandler, and the whole team for their terrific season so far. With Sectionals around the corner, we have high hopes for our team. When asked for some encouraging words for his players this year and all those aspiring to play for AHS, Lawson simply stated, “Keep working hard, do what it takes to be the best, and don’t settle for second.”

We have no doubts that the ladies will continue their momentum through Sectionals. Time to show these teams some real “FALCON PRIDE!”