David Strupp
Reporter
Although the Rams finished off their season with a 4-16 record and did not qualify for the FCIAC and State playoffs, senior captain Paul Hagopian believes they can improve this season. “We played a lot of young kids last year so everyone got a lot of experience,” he said. “For the most part, we’ve been stuck playing with different guys each year. For the first time, we’ll be able to enter the season with good team chemistry.”
Fortunately for the basketball team, they did not lose many seniors last year. However, the Rams lost a morale booster in Beau Santero. “He was hurt a lot last year, but nonetheless, he was funny, cool, and always interesting,” Paul said. “To fill his role, we need to find a new Beau. Someone who can be good for team morale.”
The basketball team has been working hard in the offseason to condition and improve their skills. “We’ve been playing in a fall league and even went to play a tournament in the Bronx this fall,” Paul said. “In regards to training, we had a guy come in and work us out four days a week.”
Although the Rams return a few key starters, they are also looking for younger players to play a significant role this season. “Both Claude Chandonnet and I have been around for a while. We’ve both started for three years so we should carry the majority of the load, but there will be great contributions from others,” Paul said. “Notably, our fellow senior captain Carsten Berger, junior Kyle Smith, and sophomore Tyler Sweeney.”
The team believes that they have a competitive edge with their great coaching. “We don’t have the same skill level as the city teams that tend to run the table, but that’s where our coaching and organization give us the edge,” Paul said. “Two years ago, we should have made States and that wasn’t for a surplus in talent but rather an entire commitment to our team’s philosophy. With the chemistry we have now, we’d be mad if we didn’t make the FCIAC playoffs.”
Although New Canaan has developed many rivals over the years, the basketball team is looking forward to one game in particular. “We love playing Wilton,” Paul said. “We play them at their court this year which is awesome because they have huge crowds at their games.”
This year, the Rams have set the goal high for themselves. “We want to win as many trophies as possible,” Paul said. “We’ve got three to play for: Christmas tournament, FCIAC, and States. We want no less than one.”
