HotShotz shatters glass ceiling as women take to hard court to challenge boys squad

For the first time in the Oshkosh Recreational Basketball league, an all girls team is stepping on the court, ready to face off in an all boys league. This group of student athletes are proving the competitive drive of the sport for everyone, regardless of gender.

The idea started with senior Allison Borgman, who thought it would be fun to bring back her middle school teammates for a final ride. This started as a casual plan, but ultimately turned into something way bigger when they decided to join the rec basketball league. And so, history was made and HotShotz was born. Senior Cali Vroman isn’t concerned about any gendered disadvantages the team may experience.

“We saw how the league is mostly guys,” she said. “We wanted to be the first female team to join and show that girls can play just as well.”

The players know that they’re facing an uphill battle not only against skill but also genetics. The team acknowledges that their competition includes taller and more experienced boys’ teams, but they feel ready for the challenge. 

“The other teams definitely have a physical advantage,” she said  “But we’ve been mentally preparing. It’s about having fun and not letting losses affect us too much. When we do win, it’s going to feel amazing.” 

Senior Lyla Wesenberg agrees competition will not hinder their enjoyment of the season.

“Despite playing against guys, I don’t think that will slow us down,” she said. “We are ready to show them what we can do.”

 The team’s practices have been focused on building confidence and honing fundamental basketball skills. The team has been running plays and preparing for tough matchups while keeping their ultimate goal in mind of proving the doubters wrong. Wesenberg wants to show the team’s athletic merit as the season progresses.

“They’re just haters and they have no idea of what we are capable of,” she said “We are going to prove them wrong and show everyone who’s boss.” 

Vroman shares a similar sentiment, feeling that the plans they have laid ahead will be the roadmap towards success. 

“We just need to stick to the plans we have discussed and practice hard, and we will be just fine,” she said. 

For the players, this season is about much more than basketball. It’s about breaking barriers and making history. 

“We’re excited to try something new and hopefully inspire future generations to have more female teams in rec ball,” Vroman said. “This is about showing that diversity belongs everywhere, even in something as simple as a recreational league.”

Though difficulties may seem inevitable, the group stays cohesive and focused. Each player brings something special to the court.  Vroman views her teammates’ qualities as good indicators for the upcoming season.

“We have a really good group of girls, so the season will be fun regardless of the outcome,” she said.  

Borgman appreciates the passion the group members have for the game and feels the way they believe in each other can fuel their outlook on moving ahead.

“Basketball is something we all enjoy,” she said. “We’re here to play and have fun.” 

Win or lose, this team has accomplished something greater just by stepping onto the court and proving that no challenge is too big when you have heart, determination, and a little bit of courage.

by Benson Lin

Published December 2nd, 2024

Oshkosh West Index Volume 121 Issue III