Draper fired up for season as four starters return to lead Eagles Girls Basketball

by Bill Althaus, Grain Valley News


Grain Valley High School girls basketball coach Randy Draper is in his element when he is working with members of the Eagles during the preseason.

The veteran coach spent time working with varsity and junior varsity players and he was having as much fun as the players. When asked how the practices are going, he has a ready answer.

"We're having fun and our practices are going well," said Draper, who is entering his 26th year as a boys and girls basketball coach. "We let 'em go a little bit early today because they have been working so hard.

"This group is great to work with, and they have already found an identity. We have four starters back from last season and some exciting newcomers. This is always one of my favorite times of year."

Returning starters are Addy Seyfert, the reigning area player of the year; Aspen Reed, Bella Bollinger, and four-sport star Madison Rust.

It might be a few days before Seyfert joins the Eagles practices because she is dealing with an ankle issue.

"When you're as good as Addy, and you're not at practice, inquiring minds want to know what's going on," Draper said. "She's going to be fine, and we're excited to get her back on the court."

Draper's Eagles have been one of the most consistently winning teams in Eastern Jackson Count, and he expects more success this season.

"We can score and we can defend," Draper said. "And with all the starters back from last season, we're already a team out there. That was evident early in our practices. And we've got some youngsters who are fitting in nicely and will play some important minutes this season."

Correction: 11/15/2025. Bella Bollinger was incorrectly identified as Ava Bollinger in the original story. This error has been corrected. 

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Longtime Grain Valley girls basketball coach Randy Draper works with members of the Eagles during a recent practice session at the high school. Photo credit: Bill Althaus