(Park & Canisius will once again be elite WNY programs, following a season where both won State & Federation titles /Photo by Dave DeLuca)
The 2015-2016 Pre-View From Centercourt contains:
- What's New
- Returning 2015 All-Centercourt Players
- Player Watch List for 2015-2016
- A League-by-League look at the teams
(MMA, Yale Cup, ECIC, NFL, N-O, CCAA, & Charters)
- Coaching Changes
- Classification Changes
- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools
- Predictions
What's New
- Coaches. All sorts of new coaches. The largest coaching turnover I've ever witnessed. In all, of the 103 teams between Section VI & the MMA, 22 of them have a new head coach this season.
- Section VI teams are finally back to playing a 20-game regular season.
- With the way Easter falls this year, the season will end a week earlier than normal.
- The Canisius/St. Joe's rivalry returns to a home-court advantage format, after playing the big games at the Canisius College Koessler Center the past couple seasons to accommodate the masses. Get there early.
- Middle College will play its home games at Bennett this season. The Kats had been hosting home games at ECC since 2010.
- After winning the Class B Federation Championship last season, Park will move up and compete with the big dogs in the CHSAA's Class A, while Nichols will return to Class B after playing up a year ago.
- It wouldn't be a season preview without some divisional realignments in the CCAA : Maple Grove & Cassadaga Valley flip leagues, with the Red Dragons joining CCAA I West, while the Cougars move to CCAA II West. In the East, Cattaraugus/Little Valley leaves Division I to compete in II.
- West Valley will not field a team this season. Students from the school have the option to play for Ellicottville.
- This season, the Class A1 semifinals will be split up between the Tuesday & Wednesday nights of Buffalo State week, with the Class AA semis and then the Class B2 semis played prior to each A1 semifinal. That means the Class A2 semifinals are Monday night, leaving the Class B1 semifinals for Thursday night.
- Far West Regionals are back at Buff State this year.
- Niagara Falls HS will host a "Battle at the Border" in February, featuring three of Canada's top teams playing Timon, Aquinas, and the host Wolverines.
- Depew will host this season's ADPRO Public/Private Challenge from December 17th-19th.
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The Players
*** Seven of the top 15 players from the 2015 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 10 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.
Returning 2015 1st Teamers
Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, Senior
* 16.5 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 2.8 BPG / 1.0 APG *
* as a junior
- After leading the Crusaders to a story book season that included Manhattan Cup, State, and Federation Championships in Class A, the best Canisius big man in the last 20 years is back for his fourth and final varsity season. Quick, agile, and very instinctual, he's a complete game changer against the areas top competition. Already offered by Sienna, Trueheart will look to close out his career by keeping the Crusaders on top. (Photo by Buffalo News)
Jordan Nwora - Park, Senior
* 21.5 PPG / 6.5 RPG / 2.4 SPG / 1.4 APG *
* as a junior
- After transferring from Amherst following his sophomore campaign, Nwora exceeded all expectations in a breakout junior season, leading the Pioneers to a Federation Championship in Class B. He became an elite scorer and is equally dangerous in half court sets and in transition. With multiple Division I offers already on the table (South Florida, Long Beach State, Fordham, & UB), the ceiling is high for a 6-7 wing that is still improving. He'll look to lead his team back to the successes they enjoyed last season, only this season, they'll attempt to win it all in Class A.
Returning 2015 Second Teamer
Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Junior
* 21.6 PPG/12.5 RPG/2.7 BPG /2.6 APG/1.7 SPG *
* as a sophomore
- The best bargain going in WNY is a two dollar game ticket to watch this guy play for 32 minutes. Entering his junior season, he has already scored 1,000 career points, and even more impressive, has over 800 rebounds already. The scary part is that he's just now starting to compete against kids his own age. Iona, Canisius, & UB have all made offers to the explosive forward who can do anything and everything on the court. (Photo by Nick LoVerde)
Returning 2015 Third Teamers
Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Sophomore
* 13.0 PPG / 5.2 APG /4.0 RPG / 3.4 SPG *
* as a freshman
- One of the most impressive statistics from a season ago was his turnover total after 24 starts. As a freshman point guard that played every crucial minute for the Billies, including two sectional title games and a regional final, he only committed 38 turnovers. That kind of poise and decision making not only makes his team better - it's already landed him an offer from Canisius, which came during his freshman year. (Photo by Harry Scull)
Takal Molson - St. Mary's, Senior
* 19 .2 PPG /7.1 RPG /2.3 APG /2.2 SPG /1.1 BPG *
* as a junior
- In my time covering high school basketball, I've never seen a better player in a Lancers uniform. Shows raw talent and athletic ability, but it's his feel for the game, ease handling the ball, and smooth shot from all ranges that separates him. He'll be relied upon heavily to be a leader this season, which will be necessary for St. Mary's to win the Class B Manhattan Cup and beyond.
TC Brown - Amherst, Senior
* 20.1 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 4.3 APG / 3.0 SPG *
* as a junior
- One of the most competitive players in the area who wants the ball in his hands, is fearless in crunch time, and always believes his team will win. Led the Tigers to a third ECIC III title and sectional final in as many varsity seasons. Has his sights set on leading Amherst to its best season in school history - one that would include a trip to Glens Falls. (Photo by Buffalo News)
Gary Foster - Middle College, Senior
* 18.3 PPG /11.7 RPG /3.0 BPG /2.8 APG /2.4 SPG *
* as a junior
- The standout talent on a very deep Kats team. A strong and intense player who is feisty inside, but has a great touch to his mid range game. After leading Middle College to the Class C regionals last year, he's ready to take the Kats to Glens Falls in search of a state title after starting for the South Park football team that made a run all the way to the state championship game. (Photo by Expressed Images)
Returning 2015 Honorable Mentions
Maceo Jack - Sr., Williamsville North - 18.7 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 1.6 APG / 1.1 SPG as a junior
Jojo Staton - Sr., Middle College - 17.2 PPG / 1.9 APG / 1.7 SPG / 1.7 RPG as a junior
Terrell Ford - Sr., Kenmore West - 16.7 PPG / 7.8 RPG / 2.9 SPG / 2.0 APG as a junior
JaQuoine Fogan - Sr., Tapestry - 16.2 PPG / 2.9 SPG / 1.7 RPG / 1.7 APG as a junior
Christian Nodine - Sr., Starpoint - 15.4 PPG / 9.0 RPG / 2.9 APG / 1.5 SPG as a junior
Davon Gant - Sr., I-Prep - 15.0 PPG / 10.3 RPG / 3.2 BPG / 2.7 APG / 1.2 SPG as a junior
Brock Kroening - Sr., Starpoint - 14.4 PPG / 9.7 RPG / 1.3 APG / 1.0 SPG as a junior
Kyle Harris - Sr., Park - 10.6 PPG / 3.6 APG / 3.1 RPG / 1.4 SPG as a junior
Hunter Anderson - Sr., Park - 9.6 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 1.6 APG / 1.5 SPG as a junior
Justin Jones - Sr., Canisius - 8.0 PPG / 6.0 RPG / 2.0 APG / 2.0 SPG as a junior
Player Watch List:
Joe Jones - 10 (Park), Amadi Ikpeze - 12 (Amherst), Quinton Lamar - 12 (Timon), Madut Ayiy - 12 (Canisius), Nick Motley - 12 (St. Joe's), Grant Beyer - 12 (St. Joe's), Shaquan Jones - 12 (McKinley), Willard Anderson - 10 (East), Sean Hill - 12 (Williamsville North), Breon Harris - 12 (Niagara Falls), Isaiah Thomas - 12 (Dunkirk), Tavien Kemp - 11 (Walsh), Jake Cavana - 12 (Olean), Ben Eckstrom - 11 (Olean), Christian Snell - 10 (Alden), Jenard Jackson - 12 (Lew-Port), Kelly Brown - 12 (Lockport), Tyron Lott - 10 (Health Sciences), Graham Dolan - 12 (Williamsville South), Qeyion Williams - 11 (Niagara Falls), James Rojas - 11 (Jamestown), Charles Lamar - 11 (Niagara Falls), Brandon Roach - 12 (Olmsted), Michael Simpson - 12 (Emerson), Chad Biersbach - 10 (Depew), Shakur Harris - 12 (South Park), Andy Xaspos - 12 (Roy-Hart), Nathan Nielson - 12 (Niagara Wheatfield), Jaylin Cooper - 10 (Medina), Justin Morgan - 12 (Medina), Ryan Bradley - 10 (Wilson), Gates Abrams - 12 (Akron), Nate Luckman - 11 (Barker), Patrick Moore - 12 (Fredonia), Josh Eddy - 12 (Panama), Chris Robson - 11 (Sherman), Trevon Thompson - 12 (Silver Creek), Nate Brawdy - 10 (Gowanda)
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League-By-League
Monsignor Martin Association
Large Schools - CLASS A
Canisius capped off years of local dominance by winning the state's highest honor in Class A, a Federation Championship. The Crusaders will continue to be elite and return 1st Team All-Centercourt standout Stafford Trueheart. After winning a Federation title in Class B one day after the Crusaders were crowned, Park moves up to Class A. The Pioneers return three starters, including 1st Team All-Centercourt pick Jordan Nwora, who is already stock piling D-I offers. Timon has plenty back from last year's dangerous top ten team, along with a pair of key additions and former Crusader assistant, Des Randall, taking over as head coach. St. Joe's should have one of the best backcourts in WNY with guards Nick Motley & Naseer Jackson, along with all-around threat Grant Beyer. St. Francis has a very young team, but many are returning and hoping to build on last season's finish. The Red Raiders will hand the reins over to freshman point guard Julian Cunningham, cousin of Howard Washington Jr.
***
Canisius: Stafford Trueheart - 12, Justin Jones - 12, Madut Ayiy - 12, Will Atkinson - 12, Andrew Schake - 12, Charles Hart - 12, Colby Multrie - 11, Jayce Johnson - 10
Park: Jordan Nwora - 12, Kyle Harris - 12,, Tony Ugboma - 12, Ethan Cotrell - 12, Mariano Baldon - 12, Hunter Anderson - 12, Joe Jones - 10, Brandon Smith - 10, Marques Lowe - 10, Chris Efretuei - 10, Noah Hutchins - 9, Jordan Gompah - 9
Timon: Quinton Lamar - 12, Paul Lancaster Jr - 12, Benny Yu - 12, Hunter Lancaster - 12, Tyler Ringwood - 12, Joe Harrison - 11, William Lamar - 11, Davion Warren - 11, Cameron Lamar - 11, Timothy Payne - 11, Jacob Mazurkiewicz - 11, Juston Johnson - 9, Hakeem Humphrey - 9, Adrian Baugh - 9
St. Joe's: Grant Beyer - 12, Anthony Brophy - 12, Nick Motley - 12, Jordan Jenneve - 12, Naseer Jackson - 11, Mike Motley - 11, Mike Telesco - 11, Hunter Dimitroff - 11, Brad Allan - 11, Razihque Sullivan - 11, Caleb Cockrell - 11, Jack Capen - 10, Chris Stineman - 9
St. Francis: John Steven Zhu - 12, Roburt Welch - 11, Sean Taggart - 11, Cody Smith - 11, Michael Casciano - 11, Bo Sireika - 10, Owen Woyshner - 10, Josh Palmer - 10, Julian Cunningham - 9
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Small Schools - CLASS B
St. Mary's is young, lacks size, and is limited on varsity game experience. What the Lancers do have is returning 3rd Team All-Centercourt selection Takal Molson, and if he embraces the leadership role that will be asked of him, they'd be my pick to win the Class B Manhattan Cup. Niagara Catholic returns five of its top six players from last year's team, led by seniors Elijah Griggs, Jaceary Menes, & Zach Socha. Sophomores Imean Davis and Nick Krupp will be important contributors in their second varsity season, while freshman Jaden Turner is expected to be an excellent addition to the backcourt for the Patriots. Nichols has just three returning varsity players who were part of last year's team that beat Timon in the Class A semifinals before losing a two-point heart breaker to Canisius. Back in Class B this season, the Vikings will be led by underclassmen Will Johnson & Marcellus Cooper. Walsh has three starters back, including dynamic point guard, Tavien Kemp. Cardinal O'Hara looks to improve from its 2-11 league mark last season. The Hawks bring back a lot, returning eight players led by Nasir Benton and Charles Debose.
***
St. Mary's: Takal Molson - 12, Kayson Hill - 12, Cam Dunning - 12, Joseph Stoj - 12, Daquan Hunt - 11, Colin Tyka - 11, Kalial White - 11, Jaquari Woods - 11, Eric Brown - 10, Matt Ciezski - 10, Christian Schableski - 10
Niagara Catholic: Elijah Griggs - 12, Jaceary Menes - 12, Zach Socha - 12, Noah Freeburger - 12, Imean Davis - 10, Nick Krupp - 10, Jaden Turner - 9
Archbishop Walsh: Adam Moore - 12, Christian Churakos - 12, Dom Ambroselli - 12, Tavian Kemp - 11, Noah Watson - 11, Jose Ortiz - 11, Latrell Butler Kemp - 10, Steven Watson - 9, George Lowry - 9, Cameron Kitchen-Perez - 9
Nichols: Ted Roach - 12, Michael Hafner - 12, Brandon Rivers - 12, Luke Meyer - 12, Ed Halady - 12, Will Johnson - 11, Paul Brinson - 11, Maxwell Hall - 11, Myles Hervey - 11, Harrison Serotte - 11, Marcellus Cooper - 10, TJ Banaszak - 10
Cardinal O'Hara: Charles Debose - 12, Curtis Johnson - 12, Ryan Hughes - 11, PJ Parker - 11, Deamontae Riley - 11, Rene Velazquez - 11, Cliff Zeigler - 11, Michon Dudley - 10, Nasir Benton-10, Mike Clark - 10, Elysee Hirwa - 10, Stephen Boyd - 9, Justin Hemphill - 9
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Section VI
YALE CUP I
With six of its top seven players back at Middle College, including 3rd Team All-Centercourt forward Fred Foster & Honorable Mention pick Jojo Staton, it's quite simply a state championship or bust season for the Kats. Put me on record as predicting it happens, along with a third Yale Cup championship since 2010. McKinley has a solid core of tenacious seniors that played a large role in the Macks winning the Yale Cup last season, led by Shaquan Jones. East will be led by sophomore Willard Anderson, who started for the team's Class B championship team as a freshman. The Panthers look to reach a sectional title game for the seventh straight year. Fresh off a run to the state championship in football, the pride of the city, South Park, will look to carry that momentum onto the court, led by Shakur Harris. Burgard is coming off its best season since 2006 and returns team captain Isaiah Jamison.
***
Middle College: Joseph Staton - 12, Gary Foster - 12, Billy Rivera - 12, Amir Jemes - 12, Brian Johnson - 12, Loronzo Truitt - 12, Claudius Thomas - 12, Terrell Jackson - 12, Dion Watkins - 12, Tyshawn Silas - 11, William Huitt - 11, Keaontea Townsend - 11, Nader Ngoopas Kompany - 10, Nathyia Jackson - 10, Hakeem Dobbins - 10, Azyion Clemons - 10
McKinley: Shaquan Jones - 12, Keyon Johnson - 12, Bruce Booker-12, Kesean Fisher-12, Raquan Goree-12
East: Takeyo Burts - 11, Takeyo Burts-11, Romello Cox - 11, Jerimah Barney-11, Moses Hughes - 10, Willard Anderson - 10
South Park : David Thomas - 12, Tony Robinson - 12, Daryl Moore - 12, Tyree Brown - 12, Mike McDonald - 12, Austin Neal - 12, Jaelin Watson - 12, Ellijah Winston - 11, Shakur Harris- 11, Raymond Mushat - 10, Jeremiah Sanders - 10, Elijah Lewis - 9, David Stroud - 9
Riverside: Romero Gardner - 12, Jamal Wardlaw - 12, Alexander Johnson - 12, Asuquo "Junior" Efiong - 12
Burgard: Isaiah Jamison - 12, Cordell Cain - 12, Keeane McCulley - 12, Diamond Allen - 12, Sharahem Austin - 12, Zion Hall - 11
Hutch-Tech
Bennett
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YALE CUP II
After a run to the state semifinals in Class D, which ended in a devastating loss after leading by double figures, I-Prep remains the team to beat in Yale Cup II. The Presidents return three starters, including standout Davon Gant (6-5), along with their sixth man, as they move up in Class to B2. Olmsted has a talented trio in Brandon Roach, Daniel Reid, & Naseem Baynes and has its sights set on dethroning I-Prep. City Honors returns two starter from last years team, Ryan Langhorne & Amir Radford, and hope to rebuild its roster through valuable experience this season. MST Seneca wants to have balanced scoring & solid defense, and will need to work hard all game. The Indians are pleasantly surprised with some underclassmen additions and also return team leaders in rebounds, blocks, & steals. DaVinci has three players back from the team that turned the corner last year under head coach Karl Maggiore, including a win over the Class D champ, I-Prep.
***
I-Prep: Jeffrey Townsel - 12, Davon Gant - 12, Daniel Santiago - 12, Zack Bashir - 12, Will Turner - 12
Olmsted: Brandon Roach - 12, Anthony Mendrysa - 12, Christian Barnes - 12, Kaelan Clouser - 12, Daniel Reid - 11, Naseem Baynes - 11, Abbas Abajobir - 11, Drew Hough - 11, Austin Parham - 11, Master Radford - 10, Gabriel Johnson - 10
City Honors: Ryan Langhorne - 12, Andrew Hoenig - 12, Joe Alessi - 12, Jaylen Keith - 12, Sam Battaglia - 11, Talon Moody - 11, Brendan Bulluck - 10, Amir Radford - 9
Lafayette: Miyaga Miyaga - 12, Eugenio Viera - 12, Cesar Medina - 11, Jerrery Felix - 11, Giovanny Carrasquillo Vargas - 11, Antwaine Woodard - 11, Nick Houston - 11, Amari Guilford - 10, Noah Miranda - 10, Kenneth Grimes - 10, Andre Reynolds - 9, Deshawn Elliott - 9, Shawndale Sanders - 9
MST Seneca: Kehri Kirk -12, Keyonte Gayles -12, Alfonce Oyoyo -12, Jermaine Jemison -12, Dom Prince -11, David Anderson -11, Davon Jones -11, Solomom Jones -11, Steven Swaggard -11, Dayshone King -11, Diallo Gray -10, Earl Howard - 9
DaVinci: Andrew Mertz - 12, Warren Richardson - 12, Hassan Ellis - 12
Emerson: Jason Dowell - 12, Justin Acker - 12, Jeremy Sims - 12, Julian Love - 12, Donald Morrow - 12, Dimitrius Simmons - 11, Anthony Hunter - 11, Tyreek Edwards - 11, Semir Smith - 11, Dayon Rice - 11, Brandon Lamar - 11
Buffalo Arts
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ECIC I
Williamsville North has the league's best player in Maceo Jack and an excellent floor general in Sean Hill. Couple that with the talent that moves up from a strong JV squad, and the Spartans look like the team to beat in ECIC I. Jamestown enters as the defending league and Class AA champs and welcome back a pair of starters from last year, in Zacc Kinsey and James Rojas. Lancaster has a quality core of seniors in Collin Murray, Alex Damiani, & Alex Konst, who saw extended action last season, and should be ready to make a push for a league title. Clarence returns only one starter, Adam Southern, but adds three athletic seniors who did not play as juniors. Jake Randall and Jake Ireland, who both gained valuable varsity experience last year as sophomores will be counted on as juniors. Orchard Park has a new coach in Jim Gibson and eight returning seniors, led by Philip Marks & Kevin Looney.
***
Williamsville North: Maceo Jack - 12, Sean Hill - 12, Nick Maranto - 12, Nick Konotopskyj - 12, Matt Winkler - 11, Willie Sturgis III - 11, Jairus Huggins - 11, Connor Kelly - 11, Anthony Maniscalco - 11
Jamestown: Zacc Kinsey - 12, Jeremy Lockett - 12, Luke Kindberg - 12, Noah Johnson - 12, Aaron Watson - 12, Jesus Rodriguez - 12, James Rojas - 11
Lancaster: Alex Damiani - 12, Collin Murray - 12, Alex Konst - 12, Danny Speyer - 12, Joe Powers - 12, Sean Gill - 12, Collin Reformat - 11, Connor Duck - 11, Noah Speyer - 11, Tim Molik - 11
Clarence: Adam Southern - 12, Spencer Dimitroff - 12, Anthony Olivieri - 12, Jake Ireland - 11, Jake Randall - 11, , Jon Trapp - 11
Orchard Park: Dan Freilicher - 12, Philip Marks - 12, Wes Seigner - 12, Max Cerone - 12, Kevin Looney - 12, Bryan Somerville - 12, Hunter Harris - 12, Chris Liberatore - 12, Joe Losardo - 12, Ben Wereski - 12, Adam Frick - 12, Nate Burnard - 12, Dan Anderson - 11, Dylan Anderson - 11, Dan Olejniczak - 11, Dan Kubik - 11
West Seneca West: Ben Hutton - 12
Frontier
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ECIC II
After winning the league and advancing to the regionals in Class A last season, Williamsville South has six players back from its eight man rotation. Once again, the Billies lined up a difficult nonleague schedule to prepare for another postseason run, but will open their season without two of their key pieces as they recover from injury. Starpoint became a major player in the local hoops scene in 2015, splitting with South in league and reaching Buff State in Class A2. The Spartans expectations are high coming into this season, with three key starters back, including a pair of All-Centercourt Honorable Mentions - Christian Nodine & Brock Kroening. RJ Killinger takes over as head coach at Williamsville East, and inherits a balanced Flames team with five sophomores. West Seneca East had its first winning season in 20 years last season. The Trojans think they can make it two straight, and hope to add a trip to Buff State to this year's accomplishments. Hamburg will look to Ryan Dils and sophomore Jacob Genzel for offensive production and leadership, as the Bulldogs will be without three-year starter Brendan Ryan for much of the season as he recovers from off-season shoulder surgery. Iroquois has three starters back and will look for quickness and athleticism to key their 2015-16 campaign. Lake Shore returns nine seniors this year and they bring a lot of experience. Collin Fiutko, who was out with a torn ACL last year, he will be a big boost for a team that returns four out of five starters from last year. Sweet Home will be a very young and energetic group, focused on implementing climate and culture.
***
Williamsville South: Graham Dolan - 12, Matt Foster - 12, Myles Hall - 12, Jordan Buell - 12, Ryan Philips - 12, Luke Corona - 12, Owen Maley - 12, David Akanonu - 12, Christopher Nelson - 11, Adam Braniecki - 11, Greg Dolan - 10, Cody Sanford - 10, Josh Foster - 10, Anthony Lombardo - 10
Starpoint: Brock Kroening - 12, Christian Nodine - 12, Ben Walters - 12, Garrett Longwell - 12, Chad Lang - 12, Hudson Earl - 12, Victor Bugenhagen - 12, Adam Lasal - 11, David Clemons - 11, Derek Clemons - 11, Jeremy Arnold - 11, Hunter Lemieux
West Seneca East: Ed Radka - 12, Dan Picciano - 12, Jake Klubek - 12, Jared Kania - 12, Nick Streczywilk - 12, Anthony Roncone - 11, Justin Gospodarski - 11, Dominic Farszmil - 11, Ryan Jasinski - 11, Alec Schreckengost -11
Hamburg: Brendan Ryan - 12, Ryan Dils - 12, Sean DeLellis - 12, Ian Chavanne - 12, Jeffery Salerno - 12, Dan Henry - 12, Patrick Hart - 11, Devon Crowley - 11, Jack Lacina - 11, Kevin Mahoney - 11, Lucas Winslow - 11, Jacob Genzel - 10, Mark Henry - 10
Iroquois: Joe Bowen - 12, Dominic Allen - 12, James Carlin - 12, Jack Edwards - 11, Matt Whalen - 11, Daniel Quinn - 11, Will Williams - 11, Tyler Tait - 10, Andrew Hetzendorfer - 10, Chris Perillo - 10, S. Zachary Popovski - 10
Williamsville East: Alex Pieri - 12, Mike Poturalski - 12, Mike Shanahan - 12, Alex Grano - 12, Kyle Gruber - 12, Andrew Kleinmann - 11, Drew Butler - 11, Matt Gelder - 11, Jonathan Spina - 11, Sean Keenan - 10, Cameron Williams - 10, Connor Williams - 10, Nicholas Kieffer - 10, Daniel Doyle - 10
Sweet Home: Kyle Tirone - 12, Jacob Serrano - 12, Melvin Williams - 11, Cameron Gates - 11, Luke Poppogallo - 11, Darryl Barrons - 11, Kelsey Lash - 11, Titus Fairclough - 11, Stephon Trueheart - 10, Ryan Harris - 10, Tahron Goudelock - 9, Evan John - 9
Lake Shore: Mike Braeuner - 12, AJ Bergum - 12, Collin Fiutko - 12, Cory Fiutko - 12, Joe Friedhoff - 12, Ron John - 12, Nate Myers - 12, Kyle Wishman - 12, Ayden Jimmerson - 12, Andrew McDonaugh - 11, Brave Williams - 11, Eric Senior - 11
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ECIC III
If ever there was a preseason when Amherst was to believe 'this is our year', it would be this year. With three-year starter and 3rd Team All-Centercourt star TC Brown leading the charge, St. Bonaventure commit Amadi Ikpeze patrolling the paint, and an excellent supporting cast (including Hutch-Tech transfer Jaylin Rose), the Tigers should have expectations of playing basketball in March. If there's a team that'll play spoiler to Amherst, it'll be Cheektowaga. The Warriors have rich recent history with the Tigers, that includes six classic battles in the last two seasons. All-Centercourt 2nd Teamer, Dominick Welch, enters his junior season as a 1,000 point scorer and is already one of the best I've ever covered. He'll team with fellow juniors, Stephan Parker and Adrian Baugh in a quest for a second sectional crown in three years. Maryvale should have one of its best teams in recent seasons, coming off a sectional final apppearance in Class B1. The Flyers bring back one of last year's captains in Drew Crombie, along with talented underclassmen Ted York-Brown and Ray Blackwell. Four out of five starters return to East Aurora, with three still being underclassmen. Depew will focus on limiting turnovers and ball movement to find good shots. The Wildcats need a another big step forward from sophomore Chad Biersbach, who averaged 10 per game as a freshman. Pioneer has a new coach in Keith Junik but will rely on a very talented group of seniors to play traditional pioneer basketball. Solid defense, hustle, and timely baskets will be the keys to victories in a very deep ECIC III. Greg Miller takes over coaching duties at Springville and will look for a big season from senior Kyle Warner.
***
Amherst: TC Brown - 12, Amadi Ikpeze - 12, Nick Foster - 12, Rory Walsh - 12, Sean Andrews - 12, Nathan Woldu - 12, Da'Shawn Hines - 12, Sean Gibson - 12, Jake Maley - 12, Caleb Moore - 12, Jaylin Rose - 11, Jordan Barr - 11, Richard Kay - 11, Michael Walsh - 11, Will Alfieri - 11, Jake Funderburk - 11, Brian Fulford - 11
Cheektowaga: Keith Weekly - 12, Dominick Welch - 11, Adrian Baugh - 11, Stephan Parker - 11, Vaughn Burdette - 11, Alex Bryant - 10
Maryvale: Drew Crombie - 12, Marcus Ford - 12, Floyd Remley - 12, Mike Ferguson - 12, Kwaine Davis - 12, Travon Spencer - 12, Ted York-Brown - 11, Ray Blackwell - 10
East Aurora: Noah Thompson - 12, Cal Dis - 12, Josh Denz - 11, Nick Montgomery - 11, Joe Montgomery - 11, Cal McTigue - 11
Depew: Jakob Grant - 12, Ryan Guay - 12, Matt Pablocki - 12, Eric Jarrett - 11, Jacob Mlodozeniec - 11, John Mietus - 11, Tyler Biersbach - 11, Chad Biersbach - 10
Pioneer: Kyle Eigenbrod - 12, Jake Hyman - 12, Tyler Schick - 12, Zach Fronckowiak - 12, Caleb Sayvone - 12, Dominic Sayvone - 12, Austin Kossow - 12, Ravo Root - 12, Josh Foley - 12, Josh Taylor - 11, Hunter Witt - 11, Ben Kazmarek - 11, Kyle Burley - 10
Springville: Kyle Warner - 12, Parker Rice - 12, Colin DeWitt - 12, Justin Morley - 12, Jimmy Schearer - 12, Matt Hartman - 12, Patrick Hannon - 12, John Domes - 11, Greg Cooney - 11, Austin Coon - 11, Connor O'Brien - 11, Zach Heary - 11
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ECIC IV
Cleveland Hill won a third straight league title last season, going unbeaten in ECIC IV. They will attempt to pressure the opposition with solid defense, while balance between the perimeter shooting and post play is expected offensively. Alden returns four starters, which include its two leading scorers & its top rebounder. JFK hopes to gain some seasoning quickly, with just three returning players and a very young team. Holland has three starters back and will look to get the ball inside, as the Dutchmen's strength will be in the post. First-year head coach, Benjamin Kopp, looks to rejuvenate the hoops program at Eden, where its eight-man roster includes just two seniors. Lackawanna will carry five sophomores on its roster, including the talented Smith twins. Tonawanda has a balance of seniors and underclassmen, led by Justin Holevinski, Cody Diaz, & Tyler Stapf.
***
Alden: Dylan Riddoch - 12, Jordan Stockweather - 12, Conrad Boucher - 11, Jacob Fusco - 11, Gabe Kozak - 11, Christian Snell - 10, Riley Pastuszynski - 10
Cleveland Hill: Ramah Lassiter - 12, Nick Gamble - 12, Daytwon Burney - 12, Rodney White - 12, Paul Majorowski - 12, Tyshawn Johnson - 12, Khalil Springs - 12, J'Son James - 11, Chase Johnson - 11, Tyler Phillips - 11, Paul Woodward - 11, Cameron Oliver - 11
Holland: EJ Staniszewski - 12, Laine Husman - 12, Cody Slocum - 12, AJ Perlino - 12, Jacob Ratajczak - 12, Jedrek Rahn - 11, Logan Pfister - 11, Coan Relyea - 11, Pierce Gardon - 11
JFK: Kenai Jordan - 12, Stephon Parks - 12, Lexus Pollard - 11, Thomas Isbrandt - 11, Brandon Kohl - 11, Dalton Fischer - 11, Jordan Synder - 10, Kell-Vonta Harris - 10
Eden: Drew Palmerton - 12, Shane Martinez - 12, Jason Porter - 11, Mitch Olds - 11, Joe LoTempio - 11, Gordon Grieble - 11, Andrew Bialy - 11, Griffin Gill - 10
Lackawana: Nedjib Karagic - 12, Zaidin Mohsin - 12, Kejuan Harmon - 12, Malik Taylor - 12, Marquez Lofton - 11, Chris Hopkins - 11, Devon Feaster - 11, Jaevon Nelson - 11, Fred Hanyon - 11, Jordan Pacillo - 11, London Smith - 10, Noble Smith - 10, Khalil Horton - 10, Carlton Threeths - 10, Bekric Harris - 10
Tonawanda: Cody Diaz - 12, Tyler Stapf - 12, Jordan Ulett - 12, Marshall Marsh - 12, Justin Holevinski - 12, Bryce Pieszala - 12, Zack Stapf - 11, Trey Lilly - 11, Nick Bitter - 11, Adam Haentges - 11, Charles Moore - 11, Collin Smith - 11, Henry Palermo - 10
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Niagara Frontier League
Niagara Falls looks ready to strike fear into league opponents again, as used to be commonplace during the Wolverines NFL dominance in the years that followed the merger. NFHS has its best team since 2013, and most have been together for three seasons now. They feature an elite defender in Breon Harris and play a brutally difficult nonleague schedule. Kenmore West may have the league's most athletic player in Terrell Ford, while junior Tyler Aquilina has good game instincts and a great touch from the perimeter. North Tonawanda graduated some key pieces from last season's NFL champion & A1 finalist unit, but retools thanks impart from a JV team that finished 15-3 in 2015. Last season, Grand Island won its first sectional game since 2008. The Vikings look to keep the momentum going with a deep squad, led by returning starter Joe Kulikowski. Lockport returns six players from last season, led by Kelly Brown. Niagara Wheatfield will put the ball in the hands of senior leader and point guard, Nathan Nielson, and look for an even bigger contribution this year from 6-5 wing Denzel Fuller. At Kenmore East, the Bulldogs have the talent to compete in the NFL and hope to put it all together this season. Lew-Port will again be competitive in league play, led by senior Jenard Jackson.
***
Niagara Falls: Breon Harris - 12, Daquan Hubbard - 12, Devin Sanders - 11, Tyler Sanders - 11, Charles Lamar - 11, Qeyion Williams - 11, Jhamir Isom - 11, Marques Miller - 10, Syquan Ralands - 10
Kenmore West: Terrell Ford - 12, Aaron Tucker - 12, Jason Taylor - 12, Rob Kirsits - 12, Tyler Aquilina - 11, Tal James - 11, Kyle Laplante - 11
Lockport: Lavette Warren - 12, Andrew Austin - 12, Kelly Brown - 12, Dakota Wiley - 11, Cordell McDowell - 11
Grand Island: Kyle Burns - 12, Joe Kulikowski - 12, Garrett Robinson - 11, Jerry Wilkes - 11, JB Wilkes - 11, Cam Sionko - 9
North Tonawanda: Jacob Lemke - 12, Nick Krauss - 12, Alex Quinn - 11, Brandon Casterline - 11, Zack Woodard - 11, Trevor Book - 10
Niagara Wheatfield: Nathan Nielson - 12, Denzel Fuller - 12, Austin Wangler - 12, Tom Watroba - 12, Phillip Bassham - 11, Noah Klettke - 11, Emilio Tripp - 11, Jaeger Martino - 11, Matt Gibson - 11, Peter Mulcahy - 11, Cade Mangan - 11, Anthony Ruffino - 10
Lew-Port: Jenard Jackson - 12, Donald Allender - 12, Dominic Lindhurst - 12, Nathan Nashwinter - 12, Jeremy Saunders - 11, Dylan Milbrand - 11, Dawson Bailey - 11, Liam Brennan - 11, Gabe Colangelo - 11, Steve Mansour - 11, William Duff - 10, Joseph Power - 9
Kenmore East: Jon Donoghue - 12, Dylan Leith - 12, Anthony Luparello - 12, Nick Rice - 12, Konner Flynn - 11, Tyler Horn - 11, Ryan Moccio - 11, Ryan Williams - 11, Kahlil O'Neil - 10, Tyler Everett - 10, Nathan Murdie - 9, D'Anzo Young - 9
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Niagara-Orleans
Medina has its deepest unit in recent years, ranging from seniors to freshmen, with a sophomore (Jalin Cooper) poised for a breakout season. Wilson needs to replace five starters from the team that pushed Fredonia at Buff State last March, but has a bright future with sophomore Ryan Bradley. Newfane will be young, carrying six sophomores. The Panthers do have a pair of starters back, along with three seniors with court experience. Barker has just three players back, but one is the team's scoring leader - junior Nate Luckman. Under first year head coach Josh Kraft, the Raiders will look to work hard and earn a reputation for consistent toughness. CSAT should possess a nice combination of experience and talent, returning six players in its bid to win a second N-O title after taking the crown in 2013. Roy-Hart returns four starters, including Andy Xapsos, a 1st Team All-League selection who led the Rams with 17.9 ppg last season. Akron returns Gates Abrams, who opposing defenses will look to locate every trip down the court, following a junior season that saw him knock down 59 treys. Albion didn't win the league last season, but ended the year with the most storied season of all the N-O teams, winning section title in Class B1.
***
Medina: Dylan Lewis - 12, Jared Zinkievich - 12, Tyler Ames - 12, Brad McPherson - 12, Justin Morgan - 12, Tyrellis Atkins - Junior - 11, Michael Cardone - 11, Darryl Haynes 11, Tyler Howard - 11, Jalin Cooper - 10, Mason Lewis - 10, Ronnie Koonce - 9, Johnny Salone - 9, Izaiah Rhim - 9
CSAT: Juan Verdejo - 12, Savio Serrano - 12, Myron Banks - 12, Jahleel Burks - 12, Navi Rodriquez - 12, Damire Grant - 12, Marcus Mccloud - 12, Darius Carson - 11, Camron Scott Williams - 11, , James Stephens - 10
Newfane: Chad Gilson - 12, David Krull - 12, Nick Schultz - 12, Zach Lajoie - 12, Connor Duncan - 12, Albert Kramp - 11, Nick Perry - 11, Matt Vogt - 11, Calib Russell - 11, Max Weber - 10, Kyle Devogal - 10, Chad Dunbar - 10, Connor Hill - 10, Brandon Gross - 10, Drew Boudeman - 10
Wilson: Alex Fox - 12, Andrew Eames - 12, John Carney - 12, Jordan Stoelting - 12, Steve Lewis - 11, Steve Lyman - 11, Jonah Miller - 11, Connor Seeley - 11, Kevin Skavinsky - 11, Kyle Wiesinger - 11, Michael Pazik - 11, Ryan Bradley - 10
Roy-Hart: Andy Xapsos - 12, Ben Maynard - 12, Justin Heschke - 12, Chris Anderson - 12, Zack Srock - 12, Austin Dodge - 12, DJ Davis - 11, Eric Fitch - 11, Tim Moriarity - 11, Justin Czaja - 11, Paul Ragonese - 11, Cam Meadows - 11, Brandon Hess - 11, Austin Walker - 11, Matt Borel - 10
Barker: Michael Snell - 12, Kyle Secore - 12, Jared Ginther - 12, Nathan Luckman - 11, Jake Arnold - 11, Eddie Wasnock - 11, Kyle Moeller - 11, Shawn Callaghan - 11, Devon Mangan - 11
Akron: Gates Abrams - 12, Lee Abrams - 12, Jake Burns - 12, Kingsley Jonathan - 12, Ryan Akin - 11, Elias Johnson - 11, Austin Ladd - 11, Weylon Abrams - 10, Owen Hill - 10, Derek Holtz - 10, Nelson Logan - 10
Albion: Brady Meakin - 12, Tyler Rotoli - 12, Manwell Taylor - 12, Evan Pappalardo - 12, Scott Daniels - 12, Tommy Mattison - 11, Kory Reynolds - 11, Chase Hall - 11, Lamar Chambers - 11, Jacob Buzard - 11, Tanner Ferris - 11
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CCAA I West
Olean has four players back who saw extended court time last year, including three starters, from its Class A2 title team. The Huskies have moved down to Class B1 and are eyeing another season that extends into March. Fredonia returns Patrick Moore and Jarod Burmaster, both starters for the Hillbillies Class B2 finalist team of a year ago. Dunkirk will be long and athletic and returns nearly all of its scoring from last year. Look for the Marauders to compete with Olean for both league and sectional titles, while being one of the area's more exciting teams to watch. Chautauqua Lake is a young team in a tough league, but they do return four starters, looking to catch some attention this year. At Falconer, Jamie Glatz takes over behind the bench, while Southwestern looks to improve under new head coach Mark Sleggs.
***
Olean: Jake Cavana - 12, Derek Schmidt - 12, Elijah Ramadhan - 12, Malakye Wofford - 12, Zack Ryan - 12, Ben Eckstrom - 11, Monty Shoemaker - 11, , Luke Rogers - 11, Derek Dandrea - 11, Dell Butler - 11, Joe Jedrosko - 11, Dylan Spencer - 11, Mike Schmidt - 9
Dunkirk: Isaiah Thomas - 12, Rashad Brown - 12, Chad Butts - 12, Kobe DeJesus - 12, Davonte Grayson - 12, Tyreek Buchanon Ruiz - 11, Shamon Stewart - 11, Evon Hernandez - 11, Caleb Rasmus - 11, Seth Rasmus - 11, Jarrett Waclawski - 11, Juan Damas - 10, Devaun Farnham DeJesus - 10
Fredonia: Patrick Moore - 12, Jared Burmaster - 12, Eric Swoyer - 12, Jovany Ruiz - 12, Michael Pucci - 12
Chautauqua Lake: Carter Davidson - 12, Michael Lysek - 12, Aaron Swan - 11, Devin Pope - 10, Tyler Meredith - 11, Nate Hammond - 11, Joel Vinciguerra - 11, Bryce Bentley - 11, Collin Sargent - 11
Southwestern: Ben Burk - 12, Nick Cooper - 12, Brendan Kennedy - 12, Jake Brecht - 12, Niko Pannes - 11, Alex Card - 9, Faizan Munir - 9
Falconer: Tavon Fisher - 12, Ryan DePietro - 12, Brandon Curtis - 12, Sean Nord - 12, Trevor Dykstra - 12, Justin Boedecker - 12, Nick Bollman - 12, Chase Teboe - 11, Brandon Luke - 11, Hunter Blue - 11
Maple Grove: Matt Roach - 12, Pat Nelson - 12, Mitch Sandberg - 12, Jeff Clauson - 12
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CCAA I EAST
Silver Creek has played in four straight Section VI championship games, and is optimistic they can keep the streak alive. Look for "Chill Showtime" to keep the ball moving rapidly with a whole new cast from the team that ran all ther way to states in 2013. Allegany-Limestone will challenge for the league hardware with seven players from its rotation back on the court, four of which started for the Gators in 2015. Ike Morrison is the new head coach at Randolph, where the Cardinals are coming off back-to-back sectional final appearances. Portville returns a pair of starters and welcomes in a young crop of talent from a JV squad that finished 17-2. Gowanda will be led by Carter Benton & sophomore Nate Brawdy. Salamanca fields a deep 15-man roster with 10 juniors. The Warriors will try to win with all around solid team defense and look to run the floor to take control of games early.
***
Silver Creek: Trevon Thompson - 12, Heron Snow - 12, Jacob Lewis - 12, Chris Williams - 11, Chase Scanlan - 10, Bryce Shomper - 10, Tom Galfo - 10
Randolph: Mason Bosley - 12, Tyler Stahley - 12, Jarrett Lecceadone - 11, Jake Beaver - 11, Nick Martonis - 11, Ryan Shipperd - 11, John Ling - 11, Kaleb Frink - 11, Sam Jacoby - 11, Andrew Bernard - 9
Allegany-Limeston: Cole Davis - 12, Bailey Higby - 12, Brad McAfee - 12, Brad Reed - 12, Zach Hemphill - 11, Austin Dziennik - 12, Tyler Hines - 12, Jordan Moore - 11, Mike McMullen - 11, Marcus Grove - 11
Portville: Nick Gehm - 12, Sean Harris - 12, Noah Bartholomew - 12, Alek Gonzalez - 12, James Constanza - 12, Ron Lott - 11, Colin Kloc - 11, Nick Stein - 11, Donovan Gayton - 11, Jaeden Harris - 10, Jonah Watkins - 10
Gowanda: Carter Benton - 12, Shaun Irwin - 12, Adam John - 12, Leland John - 12, Joe Kruszka - 12, Kevin Stapleton - 12, Nate Brawdy - 10, Ryan John - 10, Dakota Perdue - 9
Salamanca: Tate Reynolds - 12, Marcus Cooper - 12, Luke Zurat - 12, Dylan Schwartz - 12, Zeus Enriquez - 11, Marc Canella - 11, Mike Collins - 11, Jake DeKay - 11, Derek McClure - 11, Zach Simsick - 11, Nelson Rivera - 11, Xander Edstrom - 11, Darcey Redeye - 11, Chandler Armstrong - 11, Hercules Rasha - 10
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CCAA II West
Panama is ready to make some noise and go after a Class D title, with four starters back from a team that finished 16-5 and only lost to Glens Falls qualifier, I-Prep, in the sectional semifinals by four points. Sherman lacks experience beyond Chris Robson & Kolby Parks, but the Wildcats run to three straight Class D Championship games suggests they'll be back in the mix again this season. Clymer returns three of its top players from a season ago, the only seniors on the team, to compete in a deep league.
***
Panama: Jack Payne - 12, Josh Odell - 12, Josh Eddy - 12, Chris Blose - 12, Jarrett Yuchnitz - 12, Tanner Newman - 12, Cody Hadley - 12, Nolan Eggleston - 11, Dylan Marsh - 11, Tristen Frye - 11, Lucas Golden - 11, Anthony Frangione - 11
Sherman: Sam Vanvelkenburg - 12, Kyle Rhebergen - 12, Alex Foti - 12, Hunter Wynn - 12, Chris Robson - 11, Kolby Parks - 11, Kyle Carpenter - 11, Mike Delcamp - 11, Ty Prarom - 11, Korey Ayers - 11, Johnny Mendoza - 11, Brandon Nickerson - 11, Jared Gleason - 10
Clymer: Adam Honey - 12, Dylan Neckers - 11, Josh Summers - 12, Dylan Davis - 11, Justin Svetz - 11, Josh Van Earden - 11, Henry Sullivan - 11, Dan Gustafson - 11, Colt Miller - 11, James Wade - 11, Mackenzie Bestine - 11, Dustin Neckers - 10
Westfield: Trevor North - 12, Joe Quagliana - 12, Jon Wilson - 12, Greg Schroeder - 12, Luke Haskin - 12, David Grayson - 11, Eric Fermier - 11, Mike Poletto - 11, Max Bates - 11
Cassadaga Valley: Shane Parsons - 12, Tyler Simpson - 12, James Cornelius - 12
Brocton: Aaron Riforgiato - 12
Frewsburg
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CCAA II East
Expectations are high in Ellicottville, where they bring back plenty of talent and have just one player new to the varsity level. After an eight-win season last year, Pine Valley's team this season will be balanced, bigger, and more athletic. Franklinville will start a pair of sophomores this season, along with three seniors - two of which were 2nd Team All-League last year.
***
Ellicottville: Cole Lapi - 12, Cameron Eddy - 12, Robert Sawicki - 12, Matt Proctor - 12, Cameron Miller - 12, Justin Summers - 12, Tom Easton - 12, Austin Whitmer - 11, Chad Boldt - 11, Austin Gronols - 10, Griffin Chuddy - 10, Elliot Bowen - 10
Pine Valley: Kilian Abers- 12, Elijah Hall- 12, Richard Tabak- 12, Dylan Chase-11, Gilberto Ortiz- 11, Austin Butcher -11, Trent Mihalko- 10
Cattaraugus/Little Valley: Hunter Baker - 12, Caleb Hibit - 12, Devon Parmenter - 12, Alex Perkins - 12, Anthony Bernardi - 12, Kellen Martin - 11
Franklinville: Dawson Bielecki - 12, Jordan Milks - 12, Wil Bays - 12, Drew Jackson - 11, Isaac Kopp - 10, Sam Erickson - 10
Forestville: Jackson Egan - 12, Tyler Spears - 12, Andrew Deszcz - 12, Derek Catalano - 12
North Collins
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Charter Schools
Tapestry graduated nine players from its Class C1 championship squad, but the cupboard isn't bare. The Thunderhawks have athletes all over the court and love to play aggressively on both ends. Health Sciences added Jaylen Prophet from McKinley, a new head coach in former assistant Ty Parker, and brings back a depth of talent to make a run with in Class B2. At Oracle, Dave Hardy takes over and inherits a strong program with plenty returning. Maritime has four players back, including senior captain Mario Washington. The Commodores are exited about the talent they have found in newcomer James Baker, also a senior captain for the team. Buffalo Science is young and hungry, with just two starters back. Global Concepts has a new coach in Chuck Mancabelli and just three seniors, led by Fabian Pierce.
***
Health Sciences: Jaylen Prophet - 12, Amarri Funderburk - 12, Ja'Hod Robinson - 12, Carson Wiseman - 12, Bobby Oliver - 12, Wize Threats - 11, Amon Smith - 11, Travonte Smith - 11, Jaquan Renfro - 11, Antwon Stuart - 11, Tyron Lott - 10, Davonte Gaines - 10, Kameron Briggs - 9
Tapestry: JaQuoine Fogan - 12, DaVonte Cunningham - 12, Khoron Burton-Ferguson - 12, Amir Hennegan - 12, Dominic Moore - 12, Camren Hatten - 12, Tyler Henderson - 12, Anthony Wiley - 12, Paitwan Jenifer - 11, Allen McDuffie - 11, Christian Russell - 11, Jaylin Curry - 11, Marquise Jones - 11, Kyree Edwards - 11, Che Brown - 11, Rogerick Arrington - 10
Oracle: Kenny White - 12, Rakim Graves - 12, Darius Embry - 12, Jamal Woods - 12, Damani Washington - 12, Khalid Ross - 12, Amani Wallel - 12, Ziere Rodolph - 12, Shakur Bridges - 11, Cheron Wilson - 11, David Edwards - 11, Samuel Rosenthal - 11, Joseph Perez - 10, Gary Marshall - 10
Buffalo Science: Lauren Killian - 12, David Harris - 12, Roland Taylor - 12, Adrian Hester - 12, Jiuan Jones - 12, Julian Johnson - 11, Georges Cortes - 11, JaQuez McMullin - 11, Deonte Brown - 11, , Jamien Eutsey - 11, Lahai Suliman - 11, Jovante Davis - 11, JaQuan Wingard - 10, Josh Workman - 10, Amar Wood-Wiley - 10, Julian Allen - 10
WNY Maritime: James Baker - 12, Mario Washington - 12, Tyler King - 12, Malik Saunders - 12, Spencer Rhyans - 12Sean Burks - 11, Da-jon Sharp - 11, Ryan Davis - 11, Jeremy Jackson - 11, Jorge Mercado - 11, Josiah Hall - 10, Ray Rich - 10, Ke'Sean Weston - 10, Elijah Smith - 9
Global Concepts: Lincoln Billingslea - 12, Fabian Pierce - 12, Rashawn Anderson - 12, Jajuan Billingslea - 11, Lamiere Burrough - 11, Dwight Dilbert - 11, Brandon Parker - 11, Josh Kysocki - 11, Darell Elliott - 11, Anthony Florez - 11, Donovan Vuallance - 10, George Taylor - 10
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Teams with New Coaches
(Ron Killinger Sr (above) retired after 13 seasons coaching in the Yale Cup at Riverside & South Park, while his son, RJ Killinger, got his 1st varsity head coaching position at Williamsville East)
Des Randall - Timon
Ty Parker - Health Sciences
Brandon Woods - Sweet Home
RJ Killinger - Williamsville East
Kevin Shadle - Lackawanna
Peter Hudecki - South Park
Doug Ratka - Clarence
Jim Gibson - Orchard Park
Andy Bush - Olmsted
Dave Hardy - Oracle
Ike Morrison - Randolph
Andy Jacobs - Iroquois
Josh Schauman - Cassadaga Valley
Tim Buckenmeyer - Holland
Keith Junik - Pioneer
Josh Kraft - Barker
Mark Sleggs - Southwestern
Jamie Glatz - Falconer
Benjamin Kopp - Eden
Greg Miller - Springville
Jan Warren - North Collins
Chuck Mancabelli - Global Concepts
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Classification Changes
West Seneca East moves up from Class A2 to Class A1
Kenmore East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2
Maryvale moves up from Class B1 to Class A2
Olean moves down from Class A2 to Class B1
Dunkirk moves down from Class A2 to Class B1
CSAT moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
I-Prep moves up from Class D to Class B2
Gowanda moves up from Class C1 to Class B2
MST Seneca moves up from Class C2 to Class B2
Bennett moves down from Class B1 to Class C1
Buffalo Arts moves down from Class B1 to Class C1
East moves down from Class B2 to Class C1
Cleveland Hill moves down from Class B2 to Class C1
Olmsted moves up from Class C2 to Class C1
Silver Creek moves down from Class C1 to Class C2
Barker moves down from Class C1 to Class C2
Cattaraugus/Little Valley moves down from Class C1 to Class C2
Maple Grove moves up from Class D to Class C2
Franklinville moves down from Class C2 to Class D
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Preseason Polls
Large Schools
1. Park (MMA)
2. Canisius (MMA)
3. Amherst (A2)
4. Niagara Falls (AA)
5. Williamsville South (A1)
6. Timon (MMA)
7. St. Joe's (MMA)
8. McKinley (A1)
9. Williamsville North (AA)
10. Cheektowaga (A2)
Small Schools
1. Olean (B1)
2. Middle College (C2)
3. St. Mary's (MMA)
4. East (C1)
5. Health Sciences (B2)
6. I-Prep (B2)
7. Tapestry (C1)
8. Dunkirk (B1)
9. Silver Creek (C2)
10. East Aurora (B1)
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Predictions
MMA Class A - Park
MMA Class B - St. Mary's
Yale Cup I - Middle College
Yale Cup II - I-Prep
ECIC I - Williamsville North
ECIC II - Williamsville South
ECIC III - Amherst
ECIC IV - Alden
NFL - Niagara Falls
N-O - Medina
CCAA I West - Olean
CCAA I East - Silver Creek
CCAA II West - Panama
CCAA II East - Ellicottville
Charters: Health Sciences
Manhattan Cup (A) - Park
Manhattan Cup (B) - St. Mary's
Class AA - Niagara Falls
Class A1 - Williamsville South
Class A2 - Amherst
Class B1 - Olean
Class B2 - Health Sciences
Class C1 - East
Class C2 - Middle College
Class D - Panama
- Amherst & Olean both make it to Glens Falls.
- Middle College makes it to Glens Falls, where they win a Class C State Championship.
-centercourt
Great read! However, a couple things: For Dunkirk it's Shamon Stewart and Juan Damas, and the new North Collins head coach is Jan Warren.
Posted by: GW | Friday, November 27, 2015 at 03:22 PM
What did Gary Foster play for South Park's football team?
Posted by: POY '84 | Monday, November 30, 2015 at 02:16 PM
Yes.
Middle College doesn't have a football program, so students who were football players from that school, played at South Park.
Olmsted students played for Bennett.
Emerson & City Honors students played at Hutch-Tech.
MST Seneca students played for Burgard.
Posted by: centercourt | Tuesday, December 01, 2015 at 01:38 PM