Telstar is back playing varsity ball after dropping down to the JV level last year.

“This group of girls has worked in the offseason to improve their game for the next level,” Brad Mills, who remains the Rebels’ coach, said.

Telstar also has a good-sized crop of freshman joining the program, some of whom participated in the Rebels’ summer activities.

The team doesn’t have a senior, but it still has enough players, 15, that Mills hopes Telstar will be able to field a JV team, as well.

The Rebels face a schedule of Mountain Valley teams, which can be brutal for a program trying to make its footing. However, they can look to Winthrop for inspiration. The Rambers were able to go from JV squad to the postseason in two seasons while playing in the MVC.

“As always, this is a very competitive conference,” Mills said. “We feel we are ready for the challenge.”

Coach: Brad Mills (sixth year)

Conference: Mountain Valley; Class: C South

Last year’s results: Did not have a varsity team.

Returning athletes: Juniors — Julia Cherkis, Brooke Richardson, Sadie Richardson, Hannah Evans, Alivia Chappie, Josie Forbes; Sophomores — Luci Rothwell, Calla Orino, Aneah Bartlett, Angela Cintron.

Promising newcomers: Freshmen — Brooklyn Kimball, Madison Buck, Shelby Thorman, Myla Hudson, J-Lyn Roy.