With basketball season well underway, both the boys and girls squads are hoping to make improvements before the season closes in February. 

Unfortunately, the boys have had many injuries this season. According to Coach Jordan Hitchcock, the boys’ weakest area is their health. The team has had twice as many injuries this year as other Hitchcock squads have had in the last four. 

On a high note, The boys have shown an incredible amount of resiliency in the face of extreme adversity. Coach Hitchcock stated that he is very pleased with how balanced the team has been scoring. Juniors Sam Kwapnioski, Earnest Hausmann, Ean Luebbe, Blake Thompson and Tadan Bell have all scored in double figures in games this season. 

When asked what he had learned from his players, Hitchcock said, “The thing I’ve learned from my players is how tough and committed they are. This team has faced extreme adversity, yet they come to practice every day and work their tails off. I have been a part of teams in the past that have quit. There is no quit in this team.” The next boys game is Friday, Jan 29 at home at 7:30 against Lincoln Pius X.   

Following, the girls' team has had to endure a variety of unexpected challenges. Important players suffered broken fingers and suffered concussions early in the season and have not been able to appear on the court since.

According to Coach Dave Licari, the girl’s shooting percentage is not very good right now, but he does believe that it will eventually be an area of strength for the girls. Attitude and effort are also an anchor of this year’s team.

With having strengths in some areas, there are bound to be some weaknesses. Coach Licari believes that the girls can improve on turnovers and rebounding. Coach Licari has learned from his players to keep working hard and keep moving forward. The next girls game is also Friday, Jan 29 at Lincoln Pius X at 7:30.