Kirkman Claims First Victory as Head Coach for the Eagles

By Jon Crossman

LINCOLN, Nebraska—The lady Eagles opened their season with a statement game, taking a 51-27 victory over Union College. Their win comes under the new coaching tutelage of Zak and Talitha Kirkman, who are both starting their coaching career at Faith with a satisfying start. 

Rachel Kleczka scored early and often for the Eagles, bagging the first points of the 2022-23 season to give the Eagles a 5-0 start to the game. A strong first quarter from the Eagles ensured early success, with the Eagles leading 17-9 heading into the second. Lockdown defense and quick hands on oppositional turnovers allowed for a comfortable cushion of points heading into the half for the Eagles' finest.

Tina Harms stepped up in her role as center for the Eagles in the second half, making it a nightmare for the Union players in the paint with her ridiculous reach and put-back play after quick rebounds. Harms put up 12 points, knocking down 2-2 of her awarded free throws after a foul late in the 4th quarter. The team tore open the offensive chances in the final quarter, scoring 23 to secure the final 24-point victory over Union.

The Eagles shared the scoring load with a total team effort, led by Rachel Kleczka and Tina Harms with 12 apiece. Starting guard Makenna Laib added 10, and Faith Clark, Mikayla Jones and Mary Yarnell each chimed in with 4 points each. Grace Bolyard scored her first collegiate points, finishing with two points. Laib used her scrappiness under the rim to her advantage, leading the team with 7 rebounds, followed close behind by co-captain Rachel Kleczka (6). The team is off to an admirable start in shooting, connecting on 44.2% of shots from within the arc.

The next games for the Eagles are next Friday and Saturday (November 18 and 19) with the annual Faith Classic Tournament. The Eagles face the Lions of Trinity Bible College at 5 p.m. on Friday, and finish with North Central University at 4 p.m. on Saturday.