On a chilly Friday night, the Lincoln High School gym echoed with the fervent instructions of Coach Taylor Rohrer, guiding her Railers girls basketball team to victory over Rochester. Despite challenges, Rohrer's passion and dedication were evident as she paced the sidelines, offering encouragement and tactical insights. Her team, now featuring more juniors and new seniors, is gradually carving out a fresh identity, striving for excellence in every game.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Champions Through Resilience and Dedication

The Evolution of a Champion Team

Last season, the Lincoln Railsplitters etched their name in history with an undefeated 38-0 record and clinched the Class 3A state title. This remarkable achievement was highlighted by a decisive 60-44 win over Chatham Glenwood. Coach Rohrer’s leadership was pivotal, earning her accolades as The State Journal-Register’s Coach of the Year for 2023-24. However, this year’s squad presents a different dynamic. With a roster filled with juniors and new seniors, the team faces unique challenges. Yet, Rohrer remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement.The Railers' journey this season has been marked by resilience. Every practice and game offers an opportunity to grow. Coach Rohrer believes that the foundation laid in practice is beginning to translate onto the court. She notes, “We’re seeing our players show up, eager to work hard and improve. This commitment is reflected in our gameplay.” The goal remains clear: peak performance in February. The Railers are steadily working towards that objective, refining their skills and strategies.

Bridging the Gap Between Experience and Youth

Rochester entered the contest with a modest 3-9 record but proved to be formidable competition. The Rockets seized the lead in the second quarter, thanks to sharp shooting from senior Taylor Offer. The energy in the gym intensified as Coach Rohrer and Assistant Coach Cory Farmer raised their voices, motivating their players to refocus. By the end of the third quarter, the Railers had regained control, leading 35-27. Senior forward Makinley Knapp emerged as a key player, scoring several crucial baskets in the paint and finishing with 16 points. Junior guard/forward Lily Holmes also made significant contributions, leading all scorers with 19 points. Her clutch free throws in the final moments secured the victory. Meanwhile, junior Mia Clark showcased versatility with five points, five assists, and six rebounds. Knapp, who has witnessed the team’s transformation over four years, emphasized the importance of adapting to the new team dynamics. “We’ve had incredible success in the past, but now it’s about finding our own groove. We’re learning to push ourselves harder in practice and maintain strong defense throughout the game.”

Building Momentum for Future Success

Despite Rochester’s valiant effort, they struggled to sustain offensive momentum. Junior Delaney Farris led the Rockets with 15 points, while Offer added nine and Alaina Stock contributed five. Rochester’s coach, Brandon Rose, acknowledged the team’s efforts. “We couldn’t string enough possessions together, but I’m proud of how we competed in a tough environment. This experience will help us build moving forward.”Coach Rohrer’s influence extends beyond wins and losses. She instills a mindset of relentless improvement and resilience. For the Lincoln Railsplitters, this season marks a new chapter, one where young talent rises to the occasion, guided by a coach who embodies passion and determination.