BY EMMA MCLAUGHLIN & FRANKI SCALI
Matrix Feature Editor and Staff Writer
Volume XXXVII: Issue 2: Page 13
The Athens High School boys basketball team is more prepared than they have been in years past, and is ready to step up to the challenge of winning the league championship.
“My expectations are high for this team,” said Coach Jeff Skinner. “We have a lot of returning seniors with some talented young players in the mix.”
“We have Joey Burrow playing with us,” said Senior Nick Stanley. “That doesn’t happen often.”
Joey Burrow is one of multiple underclassmen that will be playing varsity this year. With more veteran players than in years past, the Bulldogs are more experienced and know how to play together as a team.
“We will miss Joe Germano and Dean Maffin,” said Sophomore Bobby Sebring. “They were key players., but we have Jared Elmore stepping up.”
What are the Bulldogs’ goals this season? “TVC Championship. We won it two years ago. We didn’t lose that many players last year,” said Junior Jared Elmore. “We’re back and better than ever.”
“We’re putting in a new offense,” added Stanley, “And we’re going to do better because of it.”
The team will face challenges this year, including scheduling. “We have to get ourselves ready to go because we are going to be at least a week behind because of the football playoffs. But that’s a great thing,” said Skinner.
“It’ll be hard making the transition from football to basketball quickly,” agreed Stanley,.“Probably five or six of us will be [making the transition].”
The Bulldog season kicks off Friday, Nov. 25 in McAffee Gym, beginning with a preview scrimmage against Miller High School.
The team seems prepared for the season and is full of optimism. “We’re going to have a good team,” said Stanley. “And win some games.”
“Everyone come out and support us this year,” said Elmore. “‘Cause it’s going to be a year to watch.”
“We have the best student section in the TVC,” added Skinner. “I know it gets the players jacked up to play. I am very appreciative of their support and their support adds a great deal to our success.”
Despite scheduling challenges, the Bulldogs are ready to play to their full potential and win the TVC Championship.