Although her nickname is “Chicken”, there’s no denying the confidence and true grit efforts of Allie Rehl, who continues to play a vital role in the success of Tuttle Lady Tigers basketball.
“That’s just one of my many nicknames but it’s the most used because when I was little I was scared of things like tornadoes,” the energetic guard who wear the number-14 jersey. “I would describe my style of play as tough, a physical player that loves to score but takes just as much pride in shutting down whoever I’m guarding on defense.”
One of just two starters returning from last year’s Class 4A state runner-up team, Rehl has earned the respect of Tuttle opponents along with her coach.
“Allie is a tough guard,” said Tuttle coach Jamie Combs. “She will be one of our primary ball-handlers and definitely one of our leaders on the court.”
The “all-in” approach is something that Allie credits to the words of compassion and inspiration learned from her dad, Kevin.
“He’s taught me everything I know, most importantly I can always hear his voice reminding me to never settle for where I’m at. You can always improve even if you are the best.”
A state qualifier in the 800m, 1600m and 4×800 relay teams, Allie is also a member of Tuttle’s girls track teams that have gone back-to-back as Class 4A state runner-up. And, as the 2022-23 season begins Allie who maintains a 4.1 GPA, stands ready to lead the Lady Tigers back to the Big House on Championship Saturday and leave with the gold ball, a feeling she experienced as a freshman.
“Although we lost many of our starters, we still have a good chance at winning state. We are a different team than last year, but that is okay,” Allie said in a voice of confidence. “Many of our players, including Landry (Allen) and myself have stepped up in their roles this year to help go toward the overall end goal. As a team we stay very focused because we all want that GOLD ball. We know it’s not going to be easy, and for us it is going to come down to hustle and teamwork and we are all ready for that challenge.”
