7th grade Blue builds on fundamentals

Currently 3-4 on the season, coach Brian Beany’s 7th Grade Blue unit has come a long way since their first practice almost two months ago.

Beany, whose grandfather was former Major League baseball player Floyd Baker, learned a lot about dedication and hustle from his late grandfather and has tried to instill that same pride and hustle in the players that currently comprise his roster.

“For many, this really is their first time playing on an organized team. Some have gained experience by playing in local parochial leagues while others are first-time team members.

“That is the reason why we stress fundamentals and teamwork at this level. Winning and losing is not as important as playing the game right.

“We have good kids in our program; kids that are willing to learn by putting in the time and effort in order to become better players,” Beany said.

No player is currently averaging in double figures offensively, but Beany notes that his team is as good defensively as any opponent while yielding barely 20 points per game to the opposition.

Starters are guards Patrick Gerberry, Alex Cho and Gino Rozzi, and forwards Noah Suchora and Nick Heitzer. Guards Michael Bianco, Deonte Brown, Kevin Zeigler and twins, Jared and Dylan Latone, and forwards Jordon Kurm, Jared Leicht and Matt Fusillo fill out the roster.