Fresh Faces give new hope

Writer: Rhys Alvarado
November 9, 2006
Filed under Uncategorized

As the fall sports season comes to a close, the once polished hardwood floors of City College’s Sports Pavilion has begun it’s collection of rubber sole marks made by hard cuts through the key.

The tranquility of empty stadium seating will soon be disturbed as rowdy fans trickle in for another season of Vaquero Men’s Basketball.

As preseason nears, Head Coach Morris Hodges is training his team with a six-day practice week to prepare for the challenges that wait ahead.

“It’s important that we have a good preseason, so that we’re ready for conference play in January,” Hodges said.

Despite the fact that this year’s squad consists of no return players, Hodges doesn’t see that as an obstacle for competing in the conference playoffs this February.

“I think we have some exciting players,” Hodges said.

Shooting guard Adam Chavez possesses good leadership, and is quick to make a move off the dribble.

International player Willy Beck has brought his skills from Sweden to run the point.

Beck also has a good outside shot, as well as an excellent understanding of the game.

Center Alberto Rangel is expected to make moves while in the post, and has the interior passing ability to dish it to his forward, Cody Ferris.

Vaquero basketball also has a handful of reserves ready for the call of duty.

“We have the potential to be a good all around team,” Hodges said.

Hodges continues to stress to his players that everything starts with defense, and looks forward to pressuring teams with Vaquero man-to-man coverage.

“We’ve shown good defensive presence at this stage,” Hodges said.

Offensively, Hodges is seeking to push the ball down court for fast break opportunities, but is willing to slow things down with a set half-court offense to work the rock in towards the post, or back out to one of their featured guards if they’re feeling trigger happy.

“We’re looking to get quality shots on every possession,” Hodges said.

Vaquero basketball is looking towards meeting conference threats such as Ventura and Moorpark, which are their first two games in conference play.

In preparation, the team is adapting to a new system of play on both sides of the ball.

“We have good characteristics that have really quickened the learning experience,” Hodges said.

Now in his 15th season at City College, Hodges is excited to see what damage this fresh group of men can inflict.

“We’re inexperienced in the college system, but I’m confident that this group is going to step up,” Hodges said.

Vaquero Men’s basketball will begin preseason play at the Glendale tournament this Friday.

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