New basketball coaches promise to bring stability and life to the junior/senior high school teams

Basketball coaches talk to players in a previous season: Jason Sayer (left), Drew Johnson (center), Michael Coltre (right). Photo courtesy of Stephanie Johnson.

by Isabella Rattray, 8th grader, Manchester Jr/Sr High School

The Manchester Jr/Sr High School basketball program has seen a lot of change this year, with several new coaches signing on this season. 

Seventh grade girls’ basketball coach Kaitlyn Wilkins grew up playing basketball. “It was a way to spend time with my dad, since he was always at work. I can’t think of a time when I wasn’t playing it,” coach Wilkins said. She wants to make basketball fun for everyone and teach them as much as she can about the sport. “I want to help bring the girls’ program back to life,” Wilkins added.

Seventh grade boys’ basketball coach Joe Rogowski started in Youth Hoops and played all the way through Varsity. “Ever since I was a player, I’ve wanted to coach,” Rogowski said. “It’s been great to be able to share my love for basketball and stay involved in the game I love so much.” Coach Rogowski brings a lot of enthusiasm, energy, and passion to his team and is thankful for the opportunity to coach at his alma mater. “I want to pass on my love for the game and create a fun and positive atmosphere where my players can grow both on and off the court.”

Eighth grade girls’ basketball coach John Wilkins has 30 years of coaching experience, spanning many levels. “In my years of coaching, I probably experienced every situation and there’s a difference between coaching middle school and varsity,” Coach Wilkins stated. He has experienced almost every basketball scenario imaginable, whether on the court or on the sidelines. “For middle school, my whole purpose is I try to make sure they love basketball and get the fundamentals down. I realize at middle school level winning is not the most important thing, them learning and having a good time is more important,” Coach Wilkins explained.

Eighth grade boys’ basketball coach Nick Niehaus started playing organized basketball when he was nine and continued throughout high school. “I decided to be a coach because I always played and watched sports when I was younger,” Niehaus said. He enjoys helping his players develop skills and learn the game. “I also love working with the kids and helping them develop their skills and learn the game they are playing,” Niehaus stated.

Junior Varsity boys’ basketball coach Drew Johnson has 20 years of coaching experience, from youth teams to Varsity. Johnson hopes to be a “positive role model, someone the kids can count on outside of sports for anything they might need.” When Johnson saw the high school needed a coach, he jumped at the chance. “My children attend Manchester schools, and I would like to provide some stability to the basketball program,” he said.

Varsity girls’ basketball coach Cori Kastel started playing basketball in elementary school, moving to competitive basketball when she reached seventh grade and sticking with it throughout high school. “I know I can make a difference by being involved in their athletic development and helping them reach their full potential,” Kastel said, adding, “both on and off the field.” She strives to be a positive role model, especially for younger girls just starting out. “There’s nothing more rewarding to me than watching my players and team grow, develop their skills, and celebrate their achievements along the way,” Coach Kastel said.

Varsity boys’ basketball coach Will Bennett has 17 years of coaching experience, working every level from youth sports all the way to student coaching at Saint Louis University. “The biggest component, stability. Hoping the boys will realize I want to stay for a long time; I plan on staying,” Coach Bennett shared. The boys’ varsity team has had many different coaches over the years, and Bennett wants to stay their coach for as long as he can. “Playing sports and being involved was a calling. I love doing it,” Bennett said.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.