By KEN HAMWEY

Staff Sports Writer

Expectations are always high for the Millis High girls’ basketball team, no matter what the talent level is. 

Success creates high hopes and the Mohawks’ program is no stranger to winning records or tourney prosperity. Millis has won three state championships, finished as state runners-up once, and has qualified for 12 playoff berths during coach Dave Fallon’s 14 years on the job.

And, in spite of an abbreviated season last year because of COVID-19, the Mohawks battled all the obstacles, adhered to all the protocols, and posted a 10-2 record. Five seniors graduated from that contingent, and two of them (Abby Miller and Eryn Rice) likely would have been 1,000-point scorers if the schedule included 20 games and the tournament has been played. Rice, a wing/forward, finished with 892 points and Miller, a point guard, had 877.

“We’ll certainly miss their presence on the court, but more importantly we lost two amazing scholar-athletes and leaders for our school and community,’’ Fallon said. “Abby is playing at Babson College and Eryn is competing at Bridgewater State. On the flipside, I know that many kids learned a lot from them and I look forward to seeing the next generation of leaders emerge.’’  

The 2021-22 edition of the Mohawks is young but they possess enough strengths to achieve the goals Fallon wants to reach. His objectives include improving every day, contending for the Tri Valley League Small Division title, qualifying for the playoffs and advancing as deep as possible. 

“We’re athletic, we’ve got speed and quickness, and our basketball IQ is high,” Fallon noted. “I also like our resiliency and mental toughness. Our defensive ability is solid but we lack height and our scoring needs to improve. Our depth is okay and we have some experience, but not as much as I’d prefer.’’

Two experienced players Fallon can count on are his senior co-captains -- off-guards Julia Grattan and Caroline Mundy.

“Julia is a fine shooter, she’s athletic, and plays strong defense,’’ he said. “And, her instincts and court sense are good. Caroline is our fastest player and our best competitor on defense. Her hoop IQ is high and she reads the plays well. Both girls lead by example, are vocal, and very encouraging towards their teammates.’’

A pair of 5-foot-9 forwards who’ll be prime rebounders include junior Mia Molinari and sophomore Hailey Bassett. “Mia averaged 7 points and 7 rebounds last year,’’ Fallon recalled. “She’s got a good jump shot and is our best rebounder. She’s quick to the hoop and is a strong finisher. Hailey is physical, has good hands and is a great passer. She’s a solid rebounder, too.’’

Fallon labels senior guard Riley Conroy as “an intelligent player and a good shooter,’’ and admires 5-foot-9 senior Sophia Sisto for her skills at power forward and center. “Sophia is physical and very strong on the boards,’’ he said. “She’ll help us in the paint.’’

Kyra Rice, Eryn’s sister, is a promising sophomore guard with lots of potential. “Kyra is very athletic, has quick hands, gets to the rim and is an effective three-point shooter,’’ Fallon said. “Able to drive or shoot, we’re looking for her to provide offense.’’

Millis’ success in girls’ basketball no doubt is linked to Fallon and his philosophy. His primary emphasis focuses on his players reaching their potential. “If the girls reach their potential, then we’re getting maximum effort,’’ he said. “That’s why we push them. Winning occurs when potential is reached and when players enjoy their sport and have fun.’’

Fallon’s players have learned valuable life lessons during his 14 years at the helm and it’s those lessons that have led the Mohawks to incredible heights. “Athletics help the girls learn to be accountable, good leaders and teammates, and resilient,’’ he emphasized. “Our players all know they have the potential to sharpen their skills.’’

And, although the Mohawks so often assume the role of David taking on Goliath, they usually go from underdogs to winners and champions. 

“It’s about focus, preparation and work ethic,’’ Fallon offered. “We can control how hard we work and it’s that attribute that fuels our players and fan base to have high expectations.’’

The 2021-22 campaign for the Millis girls will present some challenges and probably some hurdles. At Local Town Pages deadline, they were 2-1 after defeating Somerville and Dover-Sherborn and losing to Norton.