The Rams run a passing drill the length of the court during the second day of tryouts for Southwick High School boys’ basketball Tuesday. (Photo by Chris Putz)
SOUTHWICK – It may only be Dylan Dubuc’s second year as head coach of the Southwick High School boys’ basketball team, but he is hoping it is a charmed one.
For two straight seasons, Southwick has posted identical 4-16 records. The Rams are seeking to duplicate that feat during the 2015-16 season – and with that – earn a long-awaited playoff berth.
“I would love to see them get into the tournament,” coach Dubuc said of his team. “It’s going to take a lot of work but if they work hard enough and the guys come to play, we definitely have a shot.”
A Ram lays up the ball during practice Tuesday. (Photo by Chris Putz)
A total of 36 student-athletes have participated in the first two days of tryouts at Southwick High.
“I’m kind of impressed with the numbers (at tryouts),” Dubuc said. “I’m happy to see most of our guys return … They’re coachable and they work their butts off.”
Half the battle in hoops is ball handling. Luckily for Southwick, the Rams return two starting court generals – junior point guard Matt Daley and sophomore shooting guard Hunter Iglesias. Returning starter, junior forward-center Ryan
Southwick High boys’ hoops coach Dylan Dubuc stands in front of the Rams’ players during a practice session Tuesday. (Photo by Chris Putz)
LeClair is expected to handle duties in the low post and out on the wings. Junior guard-forward Nick Hough, who received a decent amount of minutes, is expected to take on a larger role this season with increased playing time, according to the Rams’ head coach.
The team will take shape over the course of the next several days, leading up to its Dec. 14 home tip-off against Athol at 7 p.m.
It will be a three-game week for Southwick as the Rams get set to host Pioneer Valley Christian Academy (Dec. 16) and travel to Ware to take on the Indians (Dec. 18).
“We will look to fire on all cylinders, and hope to come out of the gate fast,” Dubuc said. “We hope to take a step forward (this) year.”
