Overview: On the heels of a disappointing loss to eventual Class B West champion Poland in the regional quarterfinals, Spruce Mountain moves to a new league (KVAC) with a new head coach and most of its key components returning. Ring and Theriault were the one-two punch a year ago, while York, Kachnovich, Andrew Darling and Ouellette join them as three-year varsity players. Bessey, who has been an assistant to brother Chris, looks to develop depth. The Phoenix feel that they have been overlooked upon their arrival in what should be a stronger conference, and they will use that as fuel for what they hope will be a deeper tournament run.
Coach: Scott Bessey (first year)
Last year’s record: 16-3, lost in Western B quarterfinal
Returning players: Seniors — Peter Theriault (5-11 guard/forward), Deonte Ring (6-2 guard/forward), Anthony York (6-4 forward), Tyler Kachnovich (6-2 forward), Kyle Trask (6-0 guard/forward); Juniors — Andrew Darling (5-9 guard), James Ouellette (6-3 forward).
Key losses: Scottie Hall (5-9 guard), John McKenna (5-10 guard), Austin Couture (5-10 forward).
Promising newcomers: Senior — Brandon Walp (6-2 forward); Juniors —Brandon Anctil (6-4 forward), Matt Cornelio (5-10 guard/forward); Sophomores — Austin Darling (5-8 guard), Caulin Parker (6-2 forward), Noah Preble (5-8 guard).
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