The time for men’s basketball has come again and the boys are ready redeem themselves from last season where they finished with a record of 4-18. The team played Cary High School on November 16 and lost with the score of 59-51.

“We expect to improve from last year,” said JV Coach Garrett Stevens. “We hope to finish in the top half of the conference and get back to the state playoffs. We have to begin to build the program back up and this can be the team that starts that process.”

Stevens is currently a CTE teacher, however he was on the men’s varsity basketball team and graduated in 2005. He hopes to get the student body more involved in the basketball team, like they were when he played.

“I remember what it was like when the school and community were invested in this program,” said Stevens. “I want to help our guys get that back. I want them to be able to accomplish what we were able to ten to twelve years ago.”

With the upcoming season, the team hopes that some changes will help them improve from last year.

“We want to do better than last year,” said senior Captain Aaron Burress. “As a captain, I hope to lead by example and be more assertive.  I will have to lead the team this year and hopefully get all of them to work hard.”

Another aspect that is important to the captains is team bonding. This year, they are working to improve the bond that exists among the players.

“Team bonding is the most important element in any team,” said senior Captain Phillip Protz. “Most often, teamwork beats talent at any level. As we grow together as a team, we play together more efficiently towards the one goal of winning games. Every player is skilled in certain areas, and no one is perfect in every aspect of the game, and some people’s skills compliment other’s well. As a group, we must put together our skills to make a team.”

The captains’ hard work seems to have already payed off. The players agree the captains’ motivation helps the team get closer.

“They are very motivational,” said junior Jack Sanchelli. “They push me through my struggles and make sure we overcome any obstacles as a team.”

The team needs the help of the Wackos to push them to greatness this season.

“The better chemistry our guys have, the more they enjoy coming in and putting in the hard work that it takes to be successful,” said Stevens. “Some days are great and some days we’ll be tired and feeling the grind of a long season, but the guys always have to keep their goals in mind and understand that each day, they are building towards something. If each guy plays his role to the best of his abilities, then we have a chance to do something special.”