The scrappy, 5'11 senior forward from Newport, OR (Valco League) tops all scorers this season in all classifications, 1A-6A.  With an impressive 25.8 points per game and a 47.2% FG average, Rylee stands alone at the head of the pack. 

I have heard over and over from various sports buffs, "The Valco is weak this year, easy to score in a weak league".  But contrary to what many believe, besides the Valco League, Rylee has put these same numbers up against 4A Teams across the State.   Ask any of the coaches in the Valco league how easy it is to guard Peterson, they'll all tell you the same line, "She's very difficult to guard because of her versatility, she can shoot the three with ease then come  down the floor, drive the lane, score and draw the foul".

When Henley scouted Newport early March in preparation for their 2nd round play-off game they knew that in order to beat Newport it meant stopping Peterson.  Try as they may with double and triple teams, Rylee still managed to score her usual 25 points and garnish her Cub Team with the rights to play at Gill Coliseum.

Coming in as the State's 2nd leading scorer this season was senior, Jacklin Nared from 6A Westview.  She averaged 23.0 per game.  5A Leading scorer was sophomore sensation Shonni Schimmel from Hermiston with 19.2 ppg.  For 2A, Kim Hill of Portland Christian with 19.0 ppg.

As if scoring 25.8 points per game (27 games) wasn't enough for Peterson, she also led the Valco League in rebounding averaging 10 boards per game and steals with 5 per game.  She was named Valco Player of the Year, was chosen 1st Team All-Tournament in the State Championships and was named 2nd Team All-State selection last year as a junior.  A viable candidate for State 4A Player of the Year, Rylee returned from Corvallis, sadly hung up her basketball uniform and happily donned her Softball uniform where she is a stand-out Shortstop and backup pitcher for the Newport Cubs. 

Peterson hasn't chosen her collegiate path yet but is narrowing down her choices.  Finding a good fit both academically and athletically are her main concerns. 

I've been fortunate enough to spend a good deal of time with Rylee this year.  With a smile that lights up a room, she's as genuine and kind hearted as you'll ever find in a young lady.   Put a sports uniform on her and she instantly becomes the most competitive, gritty, tough-minded athlete a coach could hope to have.  She'll leave a big hole in the Newport Volleyball, Basketball and Softball programs next year but will also be an instant asset to some lucky College in Oregon!  Great season Rylee!