Coach’s Corner, Jan. 11 2008

The Crusaders and Saints boys high school basketball teams took different routes but ended up with the same 1-1 record after two games in the Ventura Super League.  The Crusaders opened their season last Sunday with a 59 - 43 win over a good Warriors team. The Crusaders showed no rust from the off-season as excellent team defense and passing led to large leads and balanced scoring. Zach H———- led the team with 13 points, newcomer John M—– added 9, George M—- had 9 rebounds and Luke S—– had 5 assists.

The Crusaders stumbled against the Ventura Heat, a young but very talented travel team, on Thursday, falling 55 - 50. After a fast start, the Crusaders fell into a double-digit third-period hole.  Defense, fast breaks and excellent passing gave the Crusaders several chances to tie the game in the final period, but poor outside shooting and missed free throws resulted in the defeat. Zach had 13 points and 10 rebounds; Damien K—– added 9 points and 4 assists; Michael M——– had 4 steals.

After a lop-sided opening loss to the Nads, the Saints rebounded with a convincing 46 - 30 victory over the Cougars. Luke H———- sparked a fourth period run with steals, penetration and twisting, one-handed shots. Luke finished with 13 points. Nick S——- had 10 points and 14 rebounds; Charlie S——- contributed 10 points.

The Saints play Ball Till we Fall Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the Poli St. gym. The Crusaders face the Nads on Wednesday at 7:45 at Cabrillo Middle School.

The complete schedule of games for both teams can be found at www.SaintAugustineAcademy.com, under Photos of Events.

Coach Seeley