Coaches and Community Rally Behind Maryville Christian Eighth-Grade Girls Basketball Squad

The 8th grade Lady Lions advance with dedication and hard work, heading to face Smithton Cougars in an exciting state playoff game on January 23, 2026.

Jan 23, 2026 3:07 PM Jan 27, 2026 10:18 AM

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MARYVILLE, IL. — The Maryville Christian School eighth-grade girls basketball team is set to compete in the SIJHSAA Class M State quarterfinals at 4:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, against the Smithton Cougars.

The team’s advancement to the state tournament marks a significant achievement for the players and coaches, who have dedicated considerable effort throughout the season.

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The school community held a send-off event earlier Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, with middle school students, cheerleaders, and the school band gathering to support the team.

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Linzi Foreman, a Maryville Christian School spokesperson, emphasized the importance of strength, confidence, unity, and peace for the players and their coaches as they prepared for the big game.

Foreman recognized coaches Brian Kamadulski, Kristen Seka-Caradonna, and Jerry Foreman for their strong leadership throughout the season.

The school expressed pride in the team’s hard work and dedication throughout the girls' basketball season.