WHS Girls Basketball Team Honored by School Committee

Members of the Winthrop High School (WHS) Girls Basketball team were recognized for their accomplishments throughout the season during the March 23 School Committee meeting. The girls had an excellent season, finishing off 20-6. Their goal was to play at the Boston Garden, and they achieved it because of tremendous student leaders and hard work.

“We’ve had a ton of support from the community. We, as a team, appreciate that. They’ve done an incredible job this season,” said Coach Ignacio Oyola. “I’d like to thank my assistants, Junior Varsity Coach Ryan McGowan, our Freshman Coach Angel Deleon, Frankie Fabiano, the ‘Mayor of Winthrop,’ and Peggy Bailey, who has volunteered her time to girls basketball for 41 years.”

Coach Oyola emphasized the girls’ success in competing at the Boston Garden; especially since the WHS Girls Basketball team has not played at the sports arena since 1994.

The four senior girls, who have participated in varsity practices since freshman year and know the program well, were acknowledged. Captain Kristen Siscamanis is the MVP of the All Star Conference team, and has a four year scholarship to play division two basketball; and although All Star Captain Niki Tsiotos is still determining which school to attend, she will definitely be playing collegiately.

Two other outstanding senior players are Maura Lanza and Poli Tsiotos, who have been playing basketball with Coach Oyola since eighth grade. The Winthrop School Committee thanked the girls for being such dedicated and supportive role models for the younger girls.

“We are so proud of you and glad that you accomplished your wonderful accolades,” said Maryalice Sharkey, member of the Winthrop School Committee. “Thank you for always conducting yourselves as Winthrop Vikings and fine young women.”