For the Catasauqua girls’ basketball team, it is about depth and chemistry.

The Rough Riders began the week with an overall 2-2 record. They finished as the runner-up to champion Executive Education in the Tamaqua tournament and have beaten Salisbury (47-22) and lost to Northern Lehigh (63-46).

Their start could be expected for a team that was 7-13 last season and have most of their cast back from last year. The Roughies fell short of gaining a district berth.

This season, they truly have had a group effort.

“The season has started well for us,” said head coach Mark Seremula. “The girls are working hard and getting better every day. Our goals are to finish in the top-six in the league and win 11 or more games to qualify for districts.

“We play 10 or 11 kids a game, which is great because it helps save people’s legs and helps with depth in case we have any sickness or injuries.”

Junior Delaney Troxell, who is among a core of juniors who all have seen significant playing time since their freshman year, sees a similar situation. She is among several players and coaches who have recognized freshman Hailey Jenkins’ contributions to the lineup.

“This season has started on a high note,” she said. “We won our first game in the Tamaqua tournament, and it gave us a lot of confidence.

“‘Hailey Jenkins has been a huge asset handling the ball and distributing it to open teammates. Playing as a team has benefitted us early in the season, and it will continue to benefit us throughout.

“We’re all looking forward to a successful season.”

Fellow junior Sophia Becker can appreciate the cohesion among the team.

“This season is looking great,” said Becker. “We have a really skilled group of girls who are willing to put the work into everything. Hailey Jenkins has been a great addition to our team. We all have learned to play at a faster speed, which she (Jenkins) is already used to.

“Many of us have been playing together for years, so we have exceptional team chemistry. We are all friends inside and outside of basketball, and we lean on each other for support.

“We are learning how to play as a team instead of individuals, and I really feel connected to each and every one of my teammates. They are the ones who pick me up when I’m down on myself or upset about a missed basket.”

Becker also complemented the addition of assistant Robert Skipper, who has added a new look.

“Coach Skip has been a great addition to our team,” added Becker. “He has given us a whole new perspective on basketball. He has already taught me so many new skills that I hope to use this season.”

The Roughies played at Bangor Monday, and they will travel to Notre Dame-East Stroudsburg Wednesday and Northwestern Dec. 19.