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A talented sophomore class helped the Ely Timberwolves pick up where they left off and make another deep run in the Section 7A high school girls basketball playoffs.
Those efforts were noted, as three Wolves won spots on the All-Iron Range Conference Team.
Lydia Shultz, Audrey Kallberg and Amelia Penke all were picked by league coaches as All-IRC.
Both Shultz and Kallberg also won spots on the All-Arrowhead Conference team, as second-team selections.
The recognition came after the Wolves won 19 games and reached the Section 7A semifinals for a fourth consecutive year.
The Wolves made their run despite graduating three all-conference honorees in Grace LaTourell, Hannah Penke and Sarah Visser, and while relying on sophomores to fill spots in the lineup.
Shultz moved into Ely’s starting five and provided a steady hand, solid defense and some scoring punch, averaging 11.1 points per contest and coming up with 112 assists and 102 steals both team highs.
“Lydia stepped into her role this year after seeing a majority of junior varsity time the year prior,” said Ely head coach Tomi Cole. “Her work ethic and what she was able to do on each end of the floor was impactful each night. ”
Kallberg provided strength on the boards and was also a scorer, averaging 10.8 points per game. She also had 243 rebounds - easily the most on the team.
“Audrey is an incredible athlete and helped us in so many ways this year,” said Cole. “She led us in rebounds per game and was one of our top three scorers this year. Audrey’s athleticism and length make her a standout player in our conference.”
Penke was the Wolves’ leading scorer, pouring in 314 points in 26 games, a 12.1 points per game average, with 41 three-point baskets. She also pulled down nearly seven rebounds per game.
“Amelia was a key factor for us this year, specifically in her ability to score from anywhere on the floor,” said Cole. “Amelia has a physicality and power that is rare in high school girls, which makes her such a force for us offensively. ”
Gaining honorable mention was Thomas, who averaged 8.4 points and five rebounds while bringing leadership and experience to the table.
“Clare was a key piece to our success and leading a very young and inexperienced team this year,” said Cole. “She has such a positive attitude and a willingness to help lead, whether that was in scoring or defensive efforts.”
