Building off a very strong 2021-2022 season, the Varsity Basketball team captured this year’s Manhattan Private Middle School League (MPMSL) Championship.
“This was a very coachable team that was willing to play hard, smart, and unselfish basketball. As a result, we had good practices which led to even better game performances,” said Coach Alifano.
To have a championship team or program you must have a strong sense of purpose and balance. It is important that your best players are your hardest workers in practice and in games. However, it is your non-starters that can make or break a season. They must be selfless, willing to put the team ahead of their own wants and needs. This year’s non-starters were the best of the best when it came to showing up to practice with a great attitude and effort. They are a big part of this championship season and deserve a great deal of credit.
As for our starters, they played the most minutes and carried much of the load throughout the season. “I always felt we had the best scoring and rebounding player on the court, the toughest and savviest player, and the best point guard in every game. This was a tough trio to deal with for any team and they showed up big in games against Collegiate, St. David’s, and St. Bernard’s.
Fortunately, they too were supported by two selfless starters who knew their role, one as a rebounder with great energy and the other with a well-balanced game who could score when needed,” added Coach Alifano.
We return five players next year and look to add a nice group of current sixth graders to the team.
Thank you to the students, parents, and teachers for all your support this season. A special thanks to Assistant Head Coach: Rob Wiseman, J.V. coaches Mike DeGennaro and Marquis Standard, our score keeper Ms. Sklow, and clock operators Coach Frank Peduto and Coach Brian Alifano.
Manhattan Private Middle School League (MPMSL)
Allen-Stevenson, Buckley, Collegiate, Dalton, St. David's, St. Bernard's, Trinity
Varsity Basketball Roster:
Beau B., Miles F., Michael G., Graham K., Kaya K., Blake K., Andreas L., Gavin M., Adam M., Tyler P., Charlie S., Henry W.
