Cox On DEMAND High School Performer of the Week

By Phil Murphy
Senior Multimedia/Content Manager, Washington D.C.

Last season, Fairfax girls’ basketball began its rebuilding process — a euphemism for what was a tough, 1-22 season in which the team never scored more than 45 points.

This year, thanks to two top-flight freshmen, a slough of returning players, a new attitude and the addition of the area’s top junior, a Rebel yell is being heard throughout the Northern Region.

Lauren Burford, a 6-feet, 1-inch transfer from St. John’s, has led a tenacious Fairfax team to a 3-1 start — taking just three games to triple last season’s win total.

Burford is the leading scorer on a Rebel unit that has exceeded last year’s offensive high-water mark all four times it has taken the floor.

“Coming in and being part of such a turnaround is great,” said Burford, ranked No. 34 nationally in the class of 2010, according to ESPN. “We doubled our win outtake in the second game. That was awesome.”

Even more awesome is Burford’s ability to make those around her better.

The Rebel offense, albeit still young with only two seniors on the roster — Lisa Charney and Megan Godwin — is running more smoothly every week.

“I came in and played some fall league games,” she said. “That really helped with some chemistry. I’ve known some of the girls since eighth grade, so that helped out a lot, too.”

Burford, though, is no stranger to accolades. Her club team took fifth place at the AAU Nationals in West Chester, Ohio, in July.

She also received honorable mention all-conference as a sophomore last year in the elite Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC).

But Burford does not underestimate the quality of competition in the Concorde District, a league that only gets deeper with her addition.

“They said it’s just as tough [here],” said Burford, an honors student. “I’m ready for the challenge to start.

“I definitely want win to Concorde District games.”

E-mail: pmurphy@digitalsports.com

CLICK HERE FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERS!

Cox
Communications is proud to serve the residents of Fairfax County, and
is honored to present the Cox ON DEMAND High School Performer of the
Week trophy award to the standout player from a Fairfax County team
weekly.

Please send nominations to:
awatts@digitalsports.com