Whitefish girls basketball to celebrate 50th anniversary

All current and former Whitefish girls basketball players, families and supporters are invited to join an anniversary celebration remembering the legacy that many have helped to create. 

The first season of girls basketball at Whitefish High School was in 1974, and the current 2024-25 season marks 50 years since its inception.  

In January 1973, a group of students and parents led by Meg Muldown and Viki Hileman approached the District 44 school board about a girls basketball team at Whitefish High School. 

As many as 60 girls showed interest in the sport at that time - then they fought to make it happen. 

“Sports are a cornerstone of this community, holding the power to change our girls' lives through teamwork, self-reliance, resilience, confidence and friendships that will last a lifetime,” said Coach Jenny Krasteva, who helped organize the event. “When you are a part of the game of basketball, it stays with you.” 

The official anniversary event is Thursday, Feb. 20, at Whitefish High School at approximately 8:30 p.m., after the varsity game against Libby. The event also coincides with senior night.  

There will be several other moments to add to the shot count, including a pre-game hype talk from former and current players at 3 p.m.  

    Members of the first Whitefish High School girls varsity basketball squad circa the Whitefish Pilot Oct. 17 1974. Pictured in the back: Coach Craig Audit, Thea Zander, Leslie Lantz, Vicki Hileman, Sonia Hand, Gail Joy, Roberta Gustave and Betsy Kauffman. In the front is LaRae Winchell, JoAnn Cloud, LeAnne Nordahl, Meg Muldown and Linda Frank.