When Coach Stephen Rogers stepped onto the Hendersonville High School basketball court three years ago to lead the Lady Bearcats, he brought more than just X's and O's. He carried forward a legacy that began in Brevard watching his father coach college basketball through the 80s and 90s – though surprisingly, coaching wasn't his initial plan.

"I was kind of nervous and didn't really trust myself with basketball skills," Coach Rogers admits with refreshing honesty. That candor perfectly reflects the approach that transformed the Lady Bearcat program into a powerhouse this season. After starting "a little rocky," the team's three senior leaders organized a players-only meeting that sparked an incredible 13-game winning streak and the program's deepest playoff run in nearly two decades.

What makes Coach Rogers special isn't just the tactical adjustments or the impressive 22-win season – it's his ability to build character alongside basketball skills. The team particularly loved winning road games in hostile environments, facing packed gymnasiums at basketball strongholds like Shelby before eventually falling to state finalist North Wilkes. Beyond the scoreboard, he teaches life lessons that resonate far beyond high school: "You hold your head high and be proud, but remember you're under a microscope, so do the right thing." With a nearly undefeated JV team ready to move up and young talent already contributing at the varsity level, the future of Lady Bearcat basketball shines brightly under his guidance. As he reminds his players before every game on his whiteboard: "All else, have fun, enjoy yourselves, and smile – that's what matters."

Want to hear more inspiring stories from community leaders making a difference? Tune in every Friday at 8:45 AM for the George Real Estate Group's Hometown Hero Series on WHKP.