Is this the year for Boardman boys?

After finishing 11-11 a season ago, third-year head coach Jim Goske feels his team has the talent and athleticism this year to make some noise.

“Like any other year, our goal is to compete for the Federal League title. We have a nice mix of veterans and youth, and on any given night, anyone can contribute and be our leader.

“How our guards play and how unselfish we are will determine how far we go. An Achilles heel over the past several years for us, however, has been our free-throw shooting. So we must convert in that area in order stay in the mix.

“North Canton Hoover and Massillon Jackson are one-two and you can debate who is one and which one is two,” Goske said.

Five seniors: forward J.T. Moore (an Ohio State football recruit), forward Chase Hammond, guard Ben Mathey, forward Kevin Johnson and forward Mark Popovec must contribute. Sophomore center Dayne Hammond and junior guard Trae Robinson will be counted upon heavily as well.

Also, junior guards Dave DiBernardi and John Fithian add much needed depth for the Spartans.

More of Moore will anchor girls

Now in his 29th season as girl’s head coach, Ron Moschella feels that a tough early schedule will help prepare his team for the grueling Federal League grind and then beyond.

“Canton McKinley is the team to beat, but I’d also like to think that you can add us to the mix as well,” Moschella noted.

Darryce Moore, an early Ohio State recruit, is a mainstay and the go-to gal for the Spartans. Rounding out the starting unit is guard Doriyon Glass, who returned this season after three knee surgeries.

She is the player that Moschella calls the one who gives them the competitive edge.

YSU recruit and three-point specialist Monica Touvelle, forward Kayleigh Lipke and junior Brooke Meenachan, a three-point specialist, can put points up — and in a hurry.

Three other players to watch are Amanda Volosin, Missy DeMarinis and Allison Borts.