HERE COME THE WIZARDS

By DILLON SULLIVAN

The crisp and cool fall weather is starting to transition into a colder, drier climate in Washingtonville. For most people, this means it is time to get inside and stay warm with blankets and a movie. For the Washingtonville Varsity Boys Basketball team, however, this means it’s time to get to work.

At the end of last season, the clock hit zero in Kingston, and the boys basketball team walked off the court. It was a bitter ending to a what was a whirlwind of a season.  Starting off 12-5 and looking like a strong and dangerous team heading into the final stretch of the regular season, they dropped their last four games and ended the season 12-9. The talk about next season on the bus ride home was very promising, with eight returning players for the following year.  The season is here, and it is time for the boys to prove themselves. 

DILLON SULLIVAN FOR THE WIZARD WEEKLY

The hype around the school for this team is real, and the players feel it, too. “There’s a lot of high expectations for the team,” voiced junior point guard Ryan Hendricks. “I honestly believe that we are being taken for granted around Section IX and we will be top contenders for this year’s section.” Washingtonville has not won a division championship since 2013, and the last section title occurred all the way back in 1992.

This team is hungry to put another banner in their home gym and ignite fire within the school and community alike. “I think this team is capable of beating any team in the section this year, and my expectation is to go into every game with a winning mindset and not back down to anyone,” exclaimed senior forward Kareem Lubin. “I truly think the section is up for grabs this year and it’s ours for the taking.” 

Winning a section title, let alone a division title, requires hard work throughout the season and always carrying a winning attitude. This is one of the most exciting teams Washingtonville has had in a number of years, and everyone is ready for it. Grab your popcorn and Wizard's gear.  We'll see you in March!