Seventh-grade hoops team gives program solid foundation

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Neighbors | Submitted.The PMS seventh-grade basketball team withstood a late rally by Austintown Blue to win the AAC title. The team includes, from left, (row 1) cheerleaders Bailey Boccia, Alyssa Lasky, Lexi Lidle, Annmarie Ginnis, Jenna Evan, Danielle Voitus; (row 2) Ryan Houston, Danny Black, Anthony Sabula, Dom Lapari, Kyle Dixon; (row 3) Nick Romeo, Nick Gajdos, Austin Wilson, Geno Petrus, Nick Burke,ÊTate Durate, coach Kim Grisdale, coach Ally Graf; (row 4) Mark Passarello snd Nick Ashton.

The Poland Middle School seventh-grade boys basketball team finished with an impressive 16-1 record this season and won the All-American Conference championship.

The accomplishment will be commemorated with a signed basketball from the season that will be displayed in the trophy case at Poland Middle School.

According to coach Kim Grisdale, all 13 players contributed to the team’s success and the team’s depth, talent and coachability will be an asset to the Poland boys basketball in the coming years.

Nick Gajdos led the team in assists and steals and was recognized for his court vision and pinpoint passing. Nick Ashton was the go-to post player and led the team in points, rebounds and blocks.

Mark Passarello, Austin Wilson and Kyle Dixon were all versatile players who played both guard and post positions. Passarello was one of the team’s fastest players and his ability to rebound and beat defenders up the court led to numerous easy baskets.

Wilson was the second leading scorer and rebounder. Grisdale said he was invaluable for his aggressiveness, decision-making and strength. Dixon, a great clutch shooter, and all-around offensive threat was relied on for his defense and solid rebounding.

“Nick Romeo was one of the team’s defensive specialists and had the second most steals on the season. His passion and offensive consistency benefitted the team,” said Grisdale. “Ryan Houston, the team’s best long-range bomber, dazzled fans with his smooth ball-handling and was often called upon to guard the other team’s best player.”

Dom Lipari was another defensive stalwart and his ability to run the offense, stay composed under pressure and be a vocal leader were all assets to the team, said the coach.

Anthony Sabula, another vocal leader, was very effective at the point guard position. His quickness led to a lot of opportunities for the Bulldogs at both ends of the court.

Tate Duarte and Danny Black were sidelined for part of the season with injuries, but they still had a positive impact on the team, according to Grisdale.

Nick Burke and Geno Petrus were both versatile guards for the Bulldogs. Petrus always seemed to be in the right place at the right time and took advantage of those scoring opportunities, said Grisdale. Burke was another scoring threat who also excelled at pushing the ball up the court and had great court vision.

“Overall, it was a truly special season for the Bulldogs and one that will be remembered for many years to come,” said Grisdale.