After the retirement of long- time girls basketball coach Joe Antonietti, new Bravettes head coach Dennis Lattimer has brought his winning tradition to Flathead High School.
Lattimer tallied impressive statistics while coaching the Troy girls basketball team from 1989 to 1994. Lattimer coached the Lady Trojans to a record of 90-32, including a 53-game winning streak and two state championships. From 1994-1996 Lattimer coached the Flathead sophomore basketball team to a 25-15 record.
"He has a lot of experience in winning," said junior Stacy Shelt. "He's a really nice guy (who) helps a lot."
Lattimer is both respected and popular with his players.
"I think he's doing a great job," said senior Shannon Grace. "He's very energetic and very positive."
In 1996 the Bravettes are 6-4, after injuries to key starters.
"Injuries to Shannon Grace and Darcy James have given other girls more chances to play," said Lattimer. "Stacy Shelt has really done well for us, as have other girls who have had opportunities.
Lattimer has had to change the strategy of the Bravettes due to the team's strengths and weaknesses.
"We're a bigger, slower team," than in past seasons. Lattimer said. "We're trying to use more of a half-court offense. We have a lack of outside shooting (so) we really need to drive the ball inside. Every possession counts."
The Bravettes are hoping to improve on their 2-4 conference record before the state tournament later this year.
"We need to make state," Lattimer said. "I really hope to host a playoff game."
Shelt thinks highly of her team's new coach.
"He encourages you to try even though you think you're failing," said Shelt. "When you're not
consistent with your free throws or anything else, he tries to motivate you."