The Bayfield High School girls basketball team is set to kick off the 2025-26 season against Dolores High School on December 5, 2025, at 5 p.m. Under the leadership of head coach Ben Martinez, the Wolverines are poised to face a talented Dolores squad, which has impressed many, including Martinez. He noted, “I watched their volleyball team and…wow, they’re athletic. They can move, they’re quick, so we’re looking forward to the challenge. It’s going to be a tough game.”
Martinez, beginning his second year with the Wolverines, has prepared his team through scrimmages against Ignacio, Durango, and Cortez. The Wolverines aim to build on last season’s performance, even as they move forward without the versatile Renae Foutz, who graduated after a standout career. Fortunately, the majority of last season’s varsity roster remains intact, providing a strong foundation for growth.
As the season progresses, juniors Vivien Clance and Kimball Anderson will be crucial in the backcourt, having previously emerged as key players alongside Foutz. The team will also rely on senior Sylvia Hesford, who will take on the primary post position. Support will come from sophomores Grace Brown and Natalie Osendorf, both of whom are expected to contribute significantly.
The Wolverines are also excited to have Kieley White Thunder back in action. After playing an important role in the state-qualifying BHS volleyball team, White Thunder’s health will be pivotal for the basketball season. Martinez expressed optimism, saying, “Hopefully she’ll be able to stay healthy.” Alongside her, seniors Lily Muir and Arriyanna Cundiff are anticipated to provide leadership and experience.
With a solid core returning, Martinez emphasized the team’s commitment to improvement. He stated, “We’re still learning and hoping to grow and keep building to help the girls to be the best they can be. Our saying is ‘Pursuing excellence every day, every play’—personal excellence that makes the team excellent.”
Following the season opener against Dolores, who finished last season with a record of 7-16 overall, the Wolverines will take a brief hiatus before visiting Creede on December 12, 2025. They will then host the junior varsity team from Durango High School on December 15 at 6 p.m. The team will conclude their pre-holiday schedule at the Rye Holiday Classic on December 18, 19, and 20.
As the Wolverines embark on this new season, the combination of returning players and fresh talent offers a promising outlook. Fans and supporters are eager to see how the team will rise to the challenges ahead, starting with the much-anticipated match against Dolores.
