This week’s column reports on the most difficult times for coaches at GNN—decisions
All five boys’ coaches in the Great Neck North school system have had to evaluate new student athletes and make cuts to trim their rosters for the upcoming season in a short period of time.
There is nothing more difficult than making cuts, and all coaches (Seventh Grade, Eighth Grade, Junior Varsity B, Junior Varsity A and Varsity) should be commended. Doing what’s best for the team sometimes has pain and sacrifice in it, but it must be done.
Now the difficult work begins as the players who have been fortunate enough to make their respective teams have to get in top physical condition and learn team chemistry as well as game strategies consisting of new offensive and defensive structures.
Time is of the essence as we all embrace the Thanksgiving holiday, and the first week of December marks the first week of games for all teams.
The Varsity team has the most promise as it returns 10 players, including the Captain Quartet of Eric Shirian, Roger Hyman, Eliot Kadouri and Julien Hakimian.
Something of importance to note is that Hakimian is on the brink of entering an elite class as he is only 150 points away from breaking through that 1,000 career-point barrier.
Hakimian, as well as another senior star, Daniel Sharifian, have been recruited by several colleges and universities for next year.
This week will be the foundation of the season. There is no substitute for hard work.
