Team optimistic despite loss of key seniors
By Ulises Araiza ’11
THE ROUNDUP
The Brophy Varsity basketball team is looking towards a bright future.
At the end of the last season, the team was ranked 12th in the 5A-I division, and 21st in the state, but coach Mr. Tony Fuller is not concerned about how they finished the season, rather how they played.
Last season the team defended well, despite turning the ball over too much and not making enough shots from the field.
In the off season, the team has been working on their free throws, turn overs and motion defense. They have also been lifting, running and watching film to better their game.
Mr. Fuller said he believes he has a good, young, group of guys who have a good attitude and are listening to their coaching staff. The team also has a good group of seniors who can lead the younger players.
Despite losing vital seniors last year such as Tyler Hornacek ’09 and Marques Valdez ’09, Mr. Fuller hopes this year’s seniors step up and do the same job as past players.
Two of those seniors are forward/center John LaVanway ’10 and point guard Ryan Milne ’10. This will be their second and third year on the team, respectively.
Both of them said they have worked hard in the offseason to prepare for their final year, not only by going to team practices but also by running, lifting and working on their own.
Mr. Fuller said that he thinks every game this season will be a challenge since the Broncos have the toughest schedule in the state. However he has “supreme confidence” in this year’s team.
“In the past our minds have been clouded with selfish priorities,” Milne said. “If we have everyone on the team able to buy into one thing, winning, we’ll be right on track. And as long as our minds don’t get cloudy, we’ll stay on track.”
“The goal is to win Brophy’s first (basketball) state championship,” Mr. Fuller said. “Students should come out and cheer loud—just like for all the other sports. Like that song—‘don’t stop believing.’”