In the heart of San Juan County, nestled amidst the rock landscapes, the Kirtland Central Lady Broncos Basketball team found its star in eighth-grader Allyson Tsosie. This young dynamo wasn’t just another player; she was a force to be reckoned with, on and off the court.

Allyson’s journey began on the soccer field in the fall, where she showcased her athleticism and talent by scoring an impressive 20 goals in 18 games on the varsity team. But it was when basketball season arrived that her true potential began to shine.

Coach Manning, with his keen eye for talent, saw something special in Allyson. Despite her youth and inexperience at the high school level, he entrusted her with the pivotal role of guard for the Lady Broncos. Coming from an AAU background, Allyson had to adapt her game to fit within the team’s system. Coach Manning worked repeatedly with her, teaching her the importance of patience and teamwork.

As the season progressed, Allyson’s growth was evident. She averaged 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game, becoming an integral part of the team’s success. But it was during the State Tournament that Allyson truly made her mark.

In the semifinals, facing off against their district rivals, the tension was palpable. The Broncos had suffered defeat at the hands of the Bengals in the previous year’s State finals, and even though Allyson wasn’t part of the team, she seemed to know what at stake,  and was determined to turn the tide. With a performance reminiscent of a seasoned veteran, she recorded her first double-double, scoring 22 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, leading her team to a hard-fought victory.

But Allyson’s journey was far from over. In the Championship game against St. Pius, she once again rose to the occasion. Points were scarce, but Allyson’s relentless drive and defensive skill propelled her team to victory. With 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals, she cemented her place in Kirtland Central’s storied history.

Coach Manning praised Allyson’s selflessness and team-first mentality, emphasizing her role in the team’s success. “Ally got better and better as the season went on,” he said. “She’s a very unselfish player and a great teammate. She was never about the stats but only the win.”

Allyson Tsosie had already begun to carve out her legacy at Kirtland Central, and with four more years ahead of her, the sky is the limit. As the San Juan County Sports Athlete of the Week, she had proven that she has what it takes to play at the highest level. And for Allyson, this was just the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

Photo by Cyndi Frank https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083005437005