By Anthony Mauro Jr.
MIDDLETOWN – The Middletown North boys’ basketball team looks to continue their success following a 22-5 season that led to an A-North Division Championship as they return three key starters.
Those three returning starters are 5’10” guard Eric Youncofski (Sr.), 6’3” guard Jason Huelbig (Sr.), and 6’3” forward Tim Frawley (Sr.).
Key newcomers for the team this year include 5’10” guard Cody Thompson (Jr.), 6’0” guard Will Boman (Jr.), 6’3” forward Tim Rhatigan (Sr.), 6’3” forward Mike Barber (Jr.), 6’4” forward Dylan Frawley (Fr.), and 6’3” forward John Dini (Jr.) who transferred from Mater Dei.
The Lions will have to build upon last season’s success without 5’10” guard Frank Derise, 5’10” guard Matt Anderson, 6’4” forward John Martens, and 6’7” forward Brian Crosby. All of whom were lost to graduation.
“We’re returning three very experienced and talented senior starters from last season. Our goals are to repeat as A-North Division and Buc Holiday Tournament Champions. We’re also looking to win the Shore Conference Tournament and Central Jersey Group IV,” said head coach Mike Iasparro.
Girls
The Middletown North girls’ basketball team will be looking to make a strong run toward a tournament bid this season as most of the core from last year’s team returns.
Four out of the five Lions’ starters from last season will be returning; Megan Degrushe, Emily Lavin, Maureen Ciccosanti, and Taryn Miller. One unnamed starter from last year decided not to play this season.
Other returning players from last year will include Lisa Cella, Nicole Tollevsen, Marissa O’Reilly, Emilia Weaver, Courtney Davis, and Ashley Bird.
Head coach Ed Jones believes some simple fundamentals will ultimately lead them to victory.
“The keys to our season are defense, rebounding, and protecting the ball. If we can do this, we can be successful,” said Jones.
“Middletown North High School has not been to the Shore Conference or State Tournament in about eight years. We would like to make these tournaments this season. We are young, but the girls have a good attitude and are working hard. They spent a lot of time working on their game during the offseason. Our schedule is tough, but we are optimistic,” added Jones.
