The St. John girls graduated their leading scorers and rebounders in Teresa Christie, Tara Christie and Ashlyn Fisher, who led a tough-minded team to a 15-7 record. The Tigers lost to South Central in the Class 2A substate semifinals.
Junior Bailey Burns and sophomore Torre Fisher are returning starters for the Tigers. Bella Haskins, Kerisa Brown and Tara Nelson are returning letter-winners.
St. John coach Danny Smith has stressed a team-oriented offensive style with a defensive-minded mindset.
“Shooting and defense will be our strengths,” Smith said.
Smith said the Tigers expect a competitive season despite its youth.
“We will be very young and inexperienced with five players returning,” Smith said. “I am looking forward to working with this group of girls. However, with 14 players competing, that allows us to have some depth.”
Smith said the best aspect with a young team is the Tigers are bound to get better as the season progresses.
“I am optimistic we can compete and be better than expected,” Smith said. “The girls are excited to get started and make great improvements.”   
The Tigers qualified for state in 2012 and 2013. Smith is starting his eighth season at St. John and his 16th season overall.

ST. JOHN TIGERS
Head coach—Danny Smith (7th 133-20)
2014-15 record—15-7 (6-2)

Roster
Bella Haskins, 5-11, sr.; Sabrina Nicario Gomes, 5-6, sr.; Bailey Burns, 5-5, jr.; Kerisa Brown, 5-3, jr.; Miranda Garner, 5-4, jr.; Baley Doggett, 5-10, jr.; Torre Fisher, 5-5, so.; Tara Nelson, 5-9, so.; Makayla Devine, 5-2, so.; Paige Doran, 5-6, fr.; Shayla Garcia, 5-3, fr.; Jackie Rios, 5-1, fr.; Alexa Rodarmel, 5-1, fr.; Kandis Williamson, 5-3, fr.

SCHEDULE
12-4—at Skyline
12-8—Kinsley at Keady Classic, Larned
12-11 to 12-12—at Keady Classic, Larned
12-15—CENTRAL PLAINS
12-18—at Cunningham
1-5—at Kinsley
1-8—at Ness City
1-12—ELLINWOOD
1-19-23—MIDWINTER CLASSIC
2-2—at Norwich
2-5—at Central Plains
2-9—LACROSSE
2-12—VICTORIA
2-16—KIOWA COUNTY
2-19—at Macksville
2-23—OTIS-BISON
2-25—CIMARRON
2-29 to 3-3—ST. JOHN 2A SUBSTATE