Among all the changes at the
school this year, it’s only fitting that a new girls
basketball coach is taking over the previously
unsteady program.
Brian Davis has stepped down from
the position of head coach, handing the reigns off
to his assistant coach, Jeffery Hart.
Before coming to Rio, Hart
coached at Loretto for 14 years, ten at the varsity
level. During his career at Loretto he lead the team
to two league titles and one section title in the
Capital Valley Athletic League.
With plenty of experience
coaching girls under his belt, Hart is ready to
begin his first season at Rio and already has high
expectations set for the team.
"This year I want a positive
record, make the playoffs, and hopefully fly for a
league title." Hart said.
But coming back from last
season’s 7-18 record, Hart also has some changes in
mind.
"You need to teach the kids how
to play offense, not run an offense." Hart said.
While changes in offense are
needed, Hart also adds that he plans to focus on
defensive fundamentals.
"You want the kids to react and
not have to think." Hart said.
Despite the trademark instability
of the girls basketball head coach position, five
different coaches in six seasons, Hart hopes to
create a consistent, uniform, and "building block
program."
However ambitious Hart may be, he
is currently focusing on building his teams and
getting players on the court. Ideally he would like
to have 11 to 12 players at each level, but Hart
isn’t all about quantity.
"I’m looking not just for numbers
but for athletic girls with the ability to learn."
Hart said.
Conditioning started this week,
and will continue four days a week until the tryout
date, November 10. He urges all girls interested to
come out to conditioning, or if they are currently
playing a fall sport to otherwise contact him.
Hart is excited for this season
and praises his team for helping him with the
transition into the position.
"They are great girls, really nice and accepting
of me."
