It has been nearly 20 years since Goshen’s Johnny Mitchell coached girls basketball, but he is up the challenge.

Mitchell will serve as the head coach for both Goshen’s varsity girls and boys team, along with the boys B-team.

On the girls side, Mitchell will have to try to fill the void left be three-time All Area player Ivia Pollard.

“No one person can replace her in one year,” Mitchell said. “You have to remember the amount of time she spent with the ball in her hand. She brought the ball up the floor, shot, rebound, steal and everything. We are looking to use a group of ladies to make up for losing one great player.”

The Eagles return just one player with extended playing time from last year’s team, senior Lynze Price.

Price played guard and post last season for the Eagles, and Mitchell feels she is ready to lead the team in 2013-14.

“Lynze is a player that always comes to practice ready to go,” said Mitchell. “She has played a lot the last few years, and knows that she will be the leader on this team going forward.”

Goshen’s schedule has familiar faces dotting the dates, including cross-county rival Pike County. Other non-area games on the schedule include Ariton, Geneva County, Providence Christian, Highland Home and Mobile Christian and Montgomery Catholic.

Elba, New Brockton and Zion Chapel are the Eagles’ area foes.

“If we can keep the girls interested and motivated, I feel like we can have a special program here over the next few years,” Mitchell said.

Goshen plays host to Geneva County this Saturday.

Tip off is for 10 a.m.