Elwood girls – Interim Coach Dakin Updegraff
ELWOOD, Ind. – (Updated 4/15) Due to the untimely passing of Coach Craig Brunnemer, Dan Updegraff stepped in as interim coach. Last year’s Panthers finished 4-18, including a brutal nine-game losing streak to end the season. Elwood has been in the midst of a talent downturn and haven’t posted a winning campaign in the last seven years. Good Varsity Club member familiar with the situation reports only one senior departs, and she was not a key contributor. Virtually everything returns, but there are struggles on several fronts. Report does point to 5-10 sr-2-b Jaleigh Crawford as a hard-nosed, proven varsity player. Her team leading 16 ppg and 10 rpg will be badly needed again this year. As referenced above, virtually every contributor is expected back for next season’s coach, but Varsity Clubber underscores that none were able to be counted on for more than 3-4 ppg. Turnovers came fast and furious for last year’s Panthers, and all that not-so-quality ball handling also returns. Varsity Clubber projects next year’s squad will likely be better based solely on having a more experienced group, but game planning will be a real challenge and besting last year’s win total and winless conference docket, will still be an uphill battle. Looking a year ahead without Crawford, Elwood will really have its hands full. Last year’s 7th and 8th grade squads both reportedly well below .500. Apps deadline 4/27 which has led some to speculate interim title may simply be removed. Interested applicants are to contact Elwood Principal Dr. Troy Friedersdorf directly. Only confirmed teaching position at this time is an Eled.
