Dongola boys squad young, inexperienced

First-year Dongola High School boys’ basketball head coach Russ Marsh will attempt to rebuild for the 2009-2010 season.

“We’re going to be young and very inexperienced,” Marsh said. “We’ve got to build the program and we’ll be starting at the bottom. Hopefully, we’ll get the kids started.”

The Demons finished 6-20 last season and there are no returning starters in the wings.

A part-time starter from last year who is returning is senior Chris Cohen, a 6-1 point guard.

Other seniors on the roster are John Samples, a 5-11 forward, and Zack Dusmore, a 6-1 center.

Juniors are Tanner Lathen, a 6-1 forward, and Darin Gibson, a 6-1 forward.

Sophomores who could contribute are Tyler Thompson, a 6-0 guard; Jordan Eads, a 5-11 guard; Austin Hinkle, a 6-1 forward; and Dalton Yunker, a 6-1 forward.

Freshmen hopefuls are Tyler Eddleman, a 6-3 center; Clay Harris, a 5-11 guard; and Brock Patterson, a 5-9 guard.

The Demons will have a key strength on which to build a successful campaign.

“We’re going to be fast,” Marsh said. “We’ll be able to put some pressure on the ball.”

Marsh does notice a positive in the program for future success down the road.

“The kids love to play basketball,” he said. “But they need some discipline.”

The Demons open their season this week in the Crab Orchard Tournament. Dongola opens with Pope County.