Four seniors to provide leadership for Ripley varsity boys squad –
By Wade Linville –
The Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington Blue Jays take the court this season with hopes of improving on last year’s overall record of 5-17 and Southern Hills Athletic Conference record of 2-11. Equipped with four experienced seniors and a mix of young talent, the Jays have what it takes to accomplish their goal.
Back on the hardwood for their senior season of hoops are 5’9″ guard Laymon Marshall, 5’8″ guard Dalton Moran, 5’10” forward/guard Jordan Griffith, and 5’9″ guard Josh Deaton.
All seniors are effective scorers who will also provide the Jays with excellent senior leadership on the court.
Also back on the court for the Jays is 5’10” guard Brian Dunn, joined by fellow juniors Ryan Harney (6’1″ forward) and junior Josiah Staggs (6’1″ forward).
With some skilled underclassmen who will see varsity playing time this season, depth could play a role in the Jays’ success this season. Sophomore postman Alex King (6’3″) will help make up for the lack of size the Jays are forced to deal with this season, while 5’9″ sophomore guard Jaki Royal will prove to be an effective scorer and quick defender on the varsity level.
Ripley has one freshman appearing on this year’s varsity roster, 6’2″ forward/guard Peyton Fyffe. Expect Fyffe to gain a great deal of varsity experience this season, a player who has proven early in the season that he can contribute to success of this year’s RULH varsity team.
The Jays are once again coached by Marty Adams.
“We have four seniors who played multiple minutes last season,” said Adams. “We have 10 guys on varsity, and all 10 guys are going to play multiple minutes. We have eight guards and no real post players except King who is a sophomore.”
What the Jays lack in overall size this season they make up for in athletic ability. Look for the Jays to be a well-conditioned team that likes the transition game, an exciting team to watch for local basketball fans when they’re on their game.
“We’re getting there,” Adams said of his team’s progress. “We’re working to get better every day and the kids are jelling well. It should be a great year for us.”