VARNUM LADY WHIPPETS
Coach: JON M. HADLEY
2024-25 Record: 17-11
The Varnum Lady Whippets enter the 2024-2025 season with renewed energy, heightened expectations, and a strong mix of experience and youthful talent. After finishing 17-11 a year ago, the program extended its impressive streak of Area Tournament appearances to thirteen straight seasons and secured its third consecutive Conference Tournament championship. Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Jon Hadley, now in his 17th year at Varnum and 14th guiding the girls’ program, the Lady Whippets continue to build on a tradition rooted in consistency, toughness, and postseason success. With a promising freshman class joining a seasoned group of returners, the team is poised to take another step toward its goal of returning to the State Tournament, a stage Varnum reached seven straight years from 2017 to 2023.
Junior guard Ashlyn White-Richards (5-4, Jr.) headlines the returning core as a dynamic two-way player who brings scoring ability, quick hands, and leadership to the floor. Senior Jenna Lofton (5-7, Sr.) provides physicality and experience in the frontcourt, while fellow senior Raylin Gee (5-6, Sr.) adds defensive pressure and steady guard play. Junior forward Miley Wildcat (5-8, Jr.) and junior guard Jazmyn Williams-Battles (5-8, Jr.) also return after contributing valuable minutes last season.
A major boost for Varnum will come from the return of Makayla Louie (5-6, So.), a talented guard expected to play a significant role after missing last season due to an ACL injury. Her skill and versatility will strengthen an already deep roster.
Adding even more excitement is a highly regarded freshman class that brings size, athleticism, and upside. Makiyah Coker (5-9, Fr.) and Faith Madkins (6-1, Fr.) anchor the interior with their dominant paint presence, while Liv Lena (5-7, Fr.) emerges as a strong two-way guard who fits seamlessly into the Lady Whippets’ system. All three, along with Louie, are poised to make immediate impacts, and any of the four could emerge as breakout players this season.
With enhanced depth, increased competition at every position, and a blend of proven leadership and high-ceiling newcomers, the Lady Whippets look ready to chase another memorable postseason run. The ingredients are in place for Varnum to contend for yet another chance at a state tournament return.
