by Declan O’Malley

Sounder contributor

It’s once again basketball season at Orcas High School, and both the boys’ and girls’ teams are gearing up for another exciting campaign on the hardwood. This year, the Vikings will compete in the 2B classification, a step up in competition.

“We face a challenge moving up to the 2B classification this year, but I believe the outlook for this year’s boys’ and girls’ basketball programs is incredibly promising,” said Orcas Athletic Director Paul Steimel. “With a strong core of returning players who bring experience and leadership, combined with an exceptionally high turnout of athletic and motivated new faces, we have the talent and depth to compete at a high level. The energy in the gym reflects the dedication of our coaches, and both teams are poised to make a statement this season.”

Underhead Coach Ed Lago said the boys team is excited about the challenge of competing at the 2B level and is ready to rise to the occasion.

“2B is more competitive, more physical and a faster-paced game than what we’re used to,” Lago said. “Our goal is to be competitive. Our primary focus is to create a culture of being a physical team and making sure the players know they belong in this division.”

Key returners for the Vikings include Joe Stephens, Romero Lago, Chase Connell, Zane Howard and Demetrio Cruz Salinas. Lago is also excited about Forest Frausto, whose physicality and rebounding have been productive in the team’s off-season tournaments and team camps.

“Forest has been very productive for us during our off-season tournaments and team camp,” Lago said. “We also have other key players returning, and our younger group has some amazing talent coming up. I see them contributing to the team more this year.”

The Vikings put in a lot of work during the off-season to prepare. They attended a week-long team camp at Western Washington University, where they competed against larger schools with high-level players, finding success in those matchups. The team also participated in a tournament at Coupeville, where they defeated teams from bigger schools.

In addition, the team holds weekly basketball skill training sessions and open runs to keep the players sharp. Some players even arrive as early as 6:30 a.m. to train on their own during the summer. This group is dedicated and fully committed to their development.

As far as anticipated matchups, the boys team is looking forward to a showdown with Mount Vernon Christian, who also moved to 2B this year.

“They, too, have moved up to 2B. They will be tough, as usual. They’re big, tall and skilled. We’re definitely looking forward to that matchup,” Lago said.

For this season, Lago hopes to instill a consistent, positive and encouraging program culture.

To catch Orcas High School basketball in action, visit https://orcasvikings.com/ for a full schedule of games.