DAWSONVILLE – Dawson County coach Steve Sweat doesn't put too much weight on his early-season schedule.
"We'll put five out there and see what happens," he said. "Hopefully, if they're not ready right now, they will by the end of the season."
The last two seasons have worked exactly that way. During 2016-17 season, the Lady Tigers only won 12 games but made the Region 7-3A title game and the state quarterfinals. Last season was similar.
The Lady Tigers return three starters, including Clemson-commit Kaylee Sticker. Sweat is expecting the 6-foot guard to be a leader.
"Of course, everybody else knows that, too," he said. "She has worked her tail off to get where she is right now. We're expecting her to use that experience in our favor."
Sticker averaged 17 ppg last season and shot 40-percent from the field. Going into her senior year, Sticker understands her role. She also understands her teammates look to her for leadership.
"We've been working hard over the summer," Sticker said. "I've got to keep the high-level intensity. We are out here every day to get better. I'm proud to be a leader on the team. As long as we work hard, I believe we can do good things."
Jr. Sophia D'Oliverira will control the tempo at point guard. Last year, she played behind Abi Chatham, who is now in college.
"I'm really having to step up and be a leader at point guard," D'Oliverira said. "I'll work with Kaylee and Anna to make sure we're playing the way we need to be playing. I'm really excited. I feel like I've taken on a big role this year."
Sweat said D'Oliverira brings speed and quickness to the position.
"We're looking for her to run the show," Sweat said. "She's up-tempo all the way. When she gets it on one end, if she can, she's going all the way to the basket every time. I love that. She takes control. We can go off of her, which is going to be a really good thing for us."
Sr. Anna Lowe also returns to the starting lineup. She'll be key in the paint. Also key will be Marlee Townley. She'll give the Lady Tigers a height advantage in the post.
Dawson County plays in a tough Region 7-3A, which houses Class 3A runner-up Greater Atlanta Christian. It's also home to East Hall and North Hall, both are region contenders.
"You better be ready to play every night," Sweat said. "There are no easy games in our region. Whether you like it or not, you're going to have to drive up the hill or down the hill – either one, it doesn't matter."
The Lady Tigers will get tested early when they open at Class 5A runner-up Flowery Branch on Thursday.
"You can thank Coach (Chad) Pittman for that one," Sweat said. "He's the one that does the schedule. It's going to be a heck of a way to open the season, but playing better teams only makes you better."
