A late-night basketball game, shots going up and the buzzer ringing. Except these girls aren’t on the court—they are on the sideline.

Our girls basketball team managers, Elli Ridgley and Mia Torchia, help the team before and after games and practices. They take on many responsibilities to keep things running smoothly.

They have many jobs to do before a big game or even during practice.

“I have to fill up the water bottles and hand them out during games,” Ridgley said. “I also run the clock during practice and have to soak the water bottles in soap before I clean them.”

Their jobs aren’t just physical tasks; they also help with the mental aspects of basketball.

“I am there to support the girls,” Torchia said. “I let them know I am there to talk.”

Along with their many responsibilities as managers, they help the team stay organized and prepared for the season.

“Before the season starts we have to make sure all the uniforms are there,” Ridgley said. “We lay them out for them so that way they can pick up their uniforms.”

They also make sure the players are healthy and taking care of their bodies.

“Being a part of the athletic training program, I know when athletes should probably stop and not push their limits,” Torchia said. “It has helped me help the team.”

Although they are managers, they still feel like an important part of the team.

“My entire senior season has been so memorable.” Torchia said. “I have just felt so included and such a part of the team.”

Being managers has also helped them build relationships with people they might not normally interact with.

“[The best part of the season was] just getting close with different girls I normally wouldn’t be close with,” Ridgley said. “It’s fun to be around different types of people.”

For students thinking about becoming a basketball manager, Ridgley has advice.

“It really is a commitment but it’s a lot of fun,” Ridgley said. “ You get to do a lot of cool things.”

Torchia shares similar thoughts for anyone considering the position.

“If you’re thinking about it [becoming a basketball manager] just try it,” Torchia said. “The girls are so sweet, they’re so kind, they really make you feel included.”

So when the shots are going up and the buzzer rings at the end of a late-night game, Ridgley and Torchia will still be there on the sideline, supporting the team every step of the way.