If every journey starts with a first step, then the Sterling girls basketball program is quite a ways along its trek thanks to some huge strides this season.

After a 4-year hiatus following 2007's run to the Elite Eight, the Golden girls are back to where they feel the tradition-rich program should be every year.

The Warriors have won two consecutive regional titles, and made it to the Sweet 16 this winter before seeing their postseason trip halted by Burlington Central, 49-26 in Thursday's Class 3A Genoa-Kingston Sectional final.