After a coaching change this season, the WHS girls basketball program has seen noticeable shifts in both practices and game play. Members of the team and spectators say that the arrival of Brooke Obar as head coach has introduced a new structure and renewed focus across the team.

   “Although we haven’t been winning as much as we would like, we have been working hard to challenge our opponents and put up a strong fight.” said sophomore Josie Dresden. “As a team, we support one another, learn from our mistakes, and keep improving each game, which shows our commitment and determination to get better.”  

   The coaching change comes during a period of growth for the program, as increasing participation has created new demands for organization and leadership.

   “This season has been a really big growth year for us,” junior Leah Macdonald said. “Having a new coach really challenged us to grow more connected as a team.”

   Obar has focused on building that connection by emphasizing player development, communication, and consistency. Her background as a longtime basketball player shapes how she approaches the team and sets expectations.

   “I fell in love with the game at a young age,” Obar said. “I still remember how influential my own high school coach was. That experience inspired me to do the same for this next generation—to help these girls grow their love for the sport and realize their potential.”

   Obar’s experience playing college basketball at Bentley University also informs her coaching, particularly in how she prepares players for the pace and demands of higher-level competition.

   “The coach had made an impact on this team during practice and games by implementing new plays and strategies,” said Winnie D’Amaro. “She also pushes us to be our best and is always willing to have tough conversations about anything.” 

  Rather than focusing on early preseason goals, Obar said her priorities have centered on steady improvement throughout the season. 

  “My motto is to get one percent better every day, whether that’s on the court, in their confidence, or in their understanding of the game,” Obar said. “I want every player to have a meaningful, positive experience and to feel understood, valued, and supported.”

   That mindset extends from learning new systems to improving conditioning and on-court communication. Obar said the goal is to prepare players for game situations by focusing on small improvements over time.

   “She’s made me more confident in my skill and playing ability,” junior Winnie D’Amaro said. “She gives me opportunities to prove myself instead of seeing one mistake and thinking I’m bad.”

   For players who are relatively new to the sport, Obar has helped establish fundamentals. 

   “Basketball isn’t a sport that I played a lot,” freshman Talia Parsekian said “She’s taught me how the sport works and helped me develop as a basketball player.”

   Physical preparation for the demands of the games has also become a larger focus as the team has progressed.

   “We’re doing more conditioning, which is going to be better for us in the long term,” Dresden said. “It pushes us to focus on getting better.”

   When mistakes happen, Obar emphasizes learning rather than punishment. 

  “If we mess up in practice, she makes us redo it until we get it right,” D’Amaro said. “That helps make sure we won’t make those mistakes in games.”

   As the season goes on, players say the coaching staff’s impact has become especially visible during competition.

  “Coach Brooke and Coach Jackson have given us more confidence as a team and helped us bond, which has built strong team chemistry,” Dresden said. “They encourage us to keep pushing ourselves, communicate on the court, and stay positive, even when games get challenging.”

   This approach helps players stay motivated instead of discouraged. 

   “She teaches us that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as we learn from them,” Dresden said.

   Athletic director Michael McGrath, who served on the hiring committee, said those qualities were part of what the school was looking for in a new coach.

    “She’s bringing a lot of enthusiasm and strong basketball knowledge,” McGrath said. “She’s also really connecting with our student-athletes.” 

   As the season continues, Obar hopes players understand her long-term commitment to their development. 

   “I want them to know how much I care about their growth,” said Obar. “Not just as basketball players, but as people.”