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St. John Gets Some Stability

By BUBBA KAPRAL

BELLAIRE — Coaching continuity. Two years may not seem like much, but it does with the St. John Central boys’ basketball program.

SJC has been through a dozen head boys’ coaches the past two decades. So with Matt Heusel returning for a second-year at the Fighting Irish helm it marks progress.

Heusel got a late start on the campaign, being named to the position after official practices had commenced. That delay was an obvious deterrent to wins, but the former Union Local and SJC hoopster developed a competitive squad, winning five games.

“Last year was definitely a learning process for both myself and the players. Getting a late start really hampered our preparation,” Heusel said. “We are light years ahead of where we were last year. The boys put in a lot of quality work over the summer. It should pay dividends this year.

“Our numbers are down somewhat but we have a nice nucleus to build with. The preseason practices have gone well. I am optimistic about the upcoming season.”

Graduation claimed some nice talent, including Zac Schnegg, Brycen Murray, Brian Bossell, Kyle Ogden, Nick Petho, Anthony Busack and Brandon Williams.

Heusel, however, welcomes back a solid and veteran nucleus. Headlining the returnees are a talented trio of seniors — point guard Cody Hamilton, post Logan St. John and swingman Cameron Opic. All three were starters last winter.

Rounding out the starting lineup will be two more seniors, athletic wing Aaron Rataiczak and solid power forward Jeremy Hagiloizou. The balance of the roster includes Bryce Ramsay, Nate Schnegg, Garrett Dierkes and Cody St. John.

Hamilton is a lightning-quick playmaker. He is equally adept at penetrating or burying a jumper.

“Cody is a great floor leader. He can score but also gets his teammates involved. He is also a quality defender,” Heusel said.

Logan St. John returns as the team’s starting center. The 6-foot-4 leaper led the team in rebounding last season, while also being a consistent scorer.

“Logan means a great deal to us. He is our post presence,” Heusel said. “Logan is capable of double-doubles on a nighty basis.”

Opic provides flexibility and athleticism. The 6-0 slasher is an ideal complement to Hamilton in the backcourt.

“Cameron can score in many different ways. His athleticism is a real boost for us. I expect big things from Cameron this season.”

Rataiczak is a 6-foot letter-winning wing. He is another capable scorer.

“Aaron is one of the big keys for us. I not only feel good about his ability on the offensive end but as a defender as well,” Heusel noted.

Rounding out the starting five will be Hagiloizou as the Irish’s enforcer. The 5-9, 255-pounder is coming off a fine season with the Bellaire football team.

“Jeremy gives us a solid rebounder at both ends of the floor. He also gives us a nice level of toughness.”

Ramsay will be cast in the all-important sixth man role. The 5-11 shooter can be utilized on the perimeter or inside.

Schnegg packs nice potential on his 5-9 sophomore frame. He provides SJC will strong backcourt depth.

Dierkes is another sophomore who Heusel is counting on for solid play off the bench. He is a 5-11 swingman.

Cody St. John also provides additional backcourt depth. He is a 5-8 junior.

Heusel is being assisted former Buckeye Local football and hoop standout Greg Ring as well as Jeff Lowe.

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