As the basketball season approaches, both the boys and girls teams are preparing to begin their season under the leadership of their newly selected captains. With strong returning players and high expectations, both programs are focused on making this a successful season.
The boys’ team will be led by senior captains Gavin Conte and Joseph Meade, along with junior John Johnson. Coming off the best season in program history, the team looks to build on last year’s 18–4 record.
“I think we have a great team this year and will continue to have success,” said Conte. “I am excited to work with the team, fellow captains, and coaching staff to make this year the best it can be.”
Junior captains are rare, but Johnson embraces the opportunity to lead.
“As junior captains are rare, I plan to lead by example every day to help our team perform at its best,” Johnson said.
Despite being only a junior, Johnson has already made a major impact. He has been one of the team’s top scorers and hit the game-winning basket against Daniel Hand in the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Quarterfinals.
Head coach Ian Kirkpatrick, now in his ninth year with the program, emphasized the importance of every player.
“Every player in our program—from the freshmen to varsity—will have an impact on our success,” Kirkpatrick said.
Senior captain Joseph Meade is a four-year member of the program and provides leadership on and off the court.
“It’s great seeing the people you’ve known your entire life develop into great athletes,” Meade said.
On the girls’ side, head coach Courtney Weiss has helped captains Aralynne Woods, Maddie Deldin, and Audrina Annucci transition into leadership roles.
“We did a lot of skill work over the summer, and our captains have been planning how to lead our team to a successful season,” Weiss said.
Senior Aralynne Woods, the team’s only senior, leads by example and sets the standard for the program.
“My goal is to lead by example,” Woods said.
Junior Maddie Deldin has been a key contributor for two seasons, averaging 7.0 points and 2.2 assists per game last year.
“I believe this will be a great year as we find new roles and learn how to work together,” Deldin said.
Junior Audrina Annucci continues to help lead a young team as it builds chemistry after graduating several seniors.
With committed captains leading the way, both basketball teams are ready to compete and make the most of the upcoming season.
