Patrick Fergus
@Fergus5Fergus
It takes a particular set of characteristics to be a Monarch. The team credits humility, passion, unity, service and thankfulness as the core values that guide the Mater Dei Girls Program on and off the court.
These principles have helped head coach Kevin Kiernan and his star-studded squads succeed immensely during his tenure.
Kiernan has made an indelible impact on a program steeped in vibrant tradition. In his 17 seasons at the helm, Mater Dei has won 15 consecutive Trinity League titles, six Southern California Regional championships, three state and even two national championships.
With such astounding feats, including an all-time record of 421-51 and the title of the winningest girls basketball coach in California history, Kiernan hasn’t lost sight of the importance of helping his players not just focus on athletic achievement.
“We try to meet that standard every day, whether on the court or in the classroom,” Kiernan said. “We know the kids are going to behave and represent Mater Dei in a great way, and wherever they are, the rules still apply.”
These values were on full display Friday afternoon as they took on Morris Catholic in a physical battle at Blake Arena. Despite the hustle and extra effort, they couldn’t get control of the game and were soundly defeated 64-48.
It was a set of tremendous twins that was the source of trouble for Mater Dei, as Morris Catholic’s Mya Pauldo and Mia Pauldo broke down their defensive efforts. Mia Pauldo, the number seventh-ranked recruit in the class of 2025, poured in 25 out of her team’s 40 first-half points.
Junior Addison Deal, who suffered a grade three high ankle sprain on December 21, was noticeably missed. Senior Janessa Cotton and the rest of the team are ready to rise to the occasion in her absence.
“I feel like I have to step up, especially as a senior,” Cotton said. “It was a big loss; she really helped us in the press.”
“I really just want to be a better leader for the team,” Cotton continued, “With Addie not always with us, there is definitely a lack of leadership, and that’s my job to help the team with that.”
Kiernan has sent more than 35 Monarchs to the college ranks, with this year’s team being no exception. Deal and Cotton are ranked in WESPN’s top 100 recruits, with senior Cotton committing to Duke University last October.
“I’m just getting better, and I want to learn a lot and sort of see where I can get,” said Cotton.
The formula for the continued success of the program is no secret. A great coach and talented players always help. Still, an established support network has been essential for Mater Dei, especially one that can incorporate those values into its mission statement.
It’s called the Courtside Club, a committee consisting of current and lifetime parents and a vast number of alums. Its sole purpose is to support the young women involved in achieving their goals, mainly by offsetting rising costs to ensure that each player can have a valuable experience that is both affordable and available despite financial constraints.
The Courtside Club also helps support the needs of the program by providing funds for additional equipment, travel and the sustainability of the lower-level teams.
As a committee member himself, Kiernan sees the organization as another reason Mater Dei repeatedly elevates itself from other programs.
“We couldn’t come to places that we’ve been without the help of a lot of people,” said Kiernan. “We’re very fortunate.”
As the 9th ranked team in California according to MaxPreps, the expectations remain high. After a 15-6 start this season, the Monarchs are poised to continue their dominance despite a slew of injuries.
“I like the way they’re competing,” Kiernan said. “It’s the worst time of the year to have injuries, but we really have no time to change. I admire their resiliency.”
Photo Courtesy of Nick Storlazzi/The Student