School: Abbotsford H.S. Girl Basketball (Nov 1981)

Contact: Kathleen E. Englebretson
Email: kathy@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Kennedy, Schilling, Wellsandt, Nelson, Venzke, Beil, Broeske, Hawkes, Schreiber, Thompson, Voelker, Reichersamer, Strobach, Bell

---Source: Wausau Daily Herald (24 November 1981)

Abbotsford High School Girls Basketball

ABBOTSFORD -- "We have the potential to be No. 1 and I'm sure we'll occupy one of the top three conference spots," predicts third-year Abbotsford High School basketball coach Pamela Kennedy.

Last year, the team placed fifth, making it to regionals only to lose by two points to Spencer and compile an 8-10 record in the conference and 10-11 overall mark.

The only graduating loss was guard Kris Schilling. Back are six letter-winners. They include 6-1 junior Kim Wellstandt, the leading conference rebounder last season and second team All-Marawood pick Lori Nelson, a 5-7 junior forward.

They will be joined by sophomores Connie Venzke, 5-9 forward and 5-2 guard Becky Beil. Senior Jill Broeske 5-10 and sophomore Tari Hawkes 5-7, both forwards will also return.

"We are young but experienced," said Kennedy, "the girls are very well disciplined."

With only one other senior back, 5-0 guard Donna Schreiber, Kennedy plans to rely on young talent like freshman Lisa Thompson, who will be playing Junior varsity and varsity and sophomore Dawn Vioelker, who Kennedy described as "Fast and a fine rebounder."

Kennedy feels that the team to watch for this season will again be Prentice, the defending WIAA State Class C champion.

**Note: Although not mentioned in the article a team photo also names Kristin Reichersamer, Sharon Strobach, Becky Bell, Ann Maslanka.