Knights could re-emerge as a GMC contender BY WARREN RAPPLEYEA Staff Writer The Old Bridge High School girls basketball team will be looking to bounce back from a difficult campaign when it opens the season on Dec. 15 against East Brunswick. A year ago, a young Lady Knights team went 2-22 as coach Ken Fischer employed a lineup that often included seven sophomores. Although his team struggled, the coach noted that his girls gained valuable varsity experience. "This was a very young and inexperienced team, but they kept on working and they're back ready to go this season," he said. "The biggest thing they have to do is learn how to win. I think that will come as the girls gain more confidence." Senior forwards Angelina Dill and Allyson Cardullo are expected to be among the team leaders, along with junior point guard Amber Zimmerlink. Dill had several strong games last year and should be among the Lady Knights' top scorers this time around, Fischer said. The hard-working Cardullo can also put the ball in the hoop and is solid defensively. Zimmerlink, who missed the bulk of last season with a thumb injury, is a welcome sight. She plays both ends of the court, moves the ball well and can score when needed. "We really don't have a pure shooter, so we'll be looking to go inside whenever we can," the coach said. "That's where we'll get most of our points. It should also give us more time when we do shoot from the outside." Other key players include junior guards Angela D'Amico, a good shooter who will spell Zimmerlink at the point; Alisia Tonuzi and Lindsey Figliolino. Stephanie Smith, a 5-10 junior who struggled through a knee injury last year, will be at center. Fischer will also use sophomores Christine Cannon and Jennifer O'Donnell as forwards, with O'Donnell possibly seeing time as a guard. Two freshmen, guards Amy Layton and Erika Salazano, made the team, and Fischer said both will get playing time. "We have 11 girls and I'm planning to play all of them," Fischer added. "Right now, I'm still mixing and matching to find the best combinations. Last year was tough, but I'm already beginning to see a difference. The girls are more comfortable on the floor and they're gaining confidence." Following the season-opener with East Brunswick, Old Bridge will compete in the WOBM Holiday Classic in Toms River, which begins Dec. 17. The Lady Knights will play at least three game in that tourney. "We get right into it, and I think that's a good thing," Fischer said. "Again, I think our main job is getting the girls to believe they can win. I know they can win, they just need to believe in themselves."