(Text provided by Suzy Jenkins Mullikin, Secretary CFHS Alumni; Photo courtesy of Clifton Forge Public Library)

Girls' Basketball Featured at Library   Clifton Forge, VA (August 22, 2017) - Compliments of the Clifton Forge High School Alumni Association, the Clifton Forge Public Library is featuring a display of the Clifton Forge High School Girls Basketball teams from the 1970s and 1980s. The teams seemed to be unbeatable before the high school closed in 1983. During the 1973-74 season, under the leadership of Coach Jane Lookabill, the Mountainettes coasted through an undefeated season, which included winning the state championship. Under Coach Cinda Rankin’s leadership during the 1975-76 season, the Mountainettes won the Blue Ridge District Championship, the Blue Ridge Tourney, and the Region III Group AA Tournament but fell one game short of the State championship; however, they were the runners-up in the State AA Tournament. For the second straight season in 1976-77, Coach Rankin’s team reached the finals. Losing by only a single point, they became the State Tournament runners-up. At the end of the season, Trudi Lacey reached 1000 points for her career. She went on to become an outstanding player in both college and pro basketball. In the 1979-80 season Coach Carol Van Lear led the Mountainettes to the Pioneer District Championship. In the 1980-81 season she led them all the way to the State Title. Two players, Tina Payne and Ann Reynolds, reached their goal of 1000 points. Girl’s basketball began at Clifton Forge High School in 1939 and evolved into a popular sport. By the time the school closed, it was providing an opportunity for many young girls to advance their education. The Alumni Association’s Girls Basketball display will continue throughout September. 
The Clifton Forge Public Library is located at 535 Church Street. For information on any library programs and activities, call 863-2519.

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