First competition in new gym

While the boys basketball scrimmage on Monday was meant to prepare the Clippers for the upcoming season, it was also an opportunity for athletic director Rich Kern and company to practice hosting athletic events in the new gym.

From the scoreboard and jumbotron beside it to concessions and ticket taking, there were no real hitches, Kern said.

“It all went pretty well, especially considering all the new electronics and a new game setting. We’re excited for fall sports to start and getting some fans back in the new gym.”

Three visiting teams were present: Granada-Huntley-East Chain/Truman, Immanuel Lutheran and Madelia. Each team played each other once.

The day opened with Cleveland taking on Immanuel Lutheran. It was the first time the gym has been used for outside competition.

“’What an absolutely amazing venue,’” said Cleveland head coach Dan Fredrickson. “Everybody here, the coaches and players, said that. It was a neat atmosphere coming in, watching the players take the court. We’re very fortunate to have this facility.”

Lucas Walechka, the only returning to-be senior who was able to play on Monday, said the new gym rocked.

“The floor is really grippy compared to the old one. I feel I am able to jump higher because the upstairs one flexes. This one is nice and tight.”

Walechka also liked how the space is less claustrophobic compared to the old gym.

“I like the openness of it. Now I can shoot threes in here…they seem to fall a little bit better. The first practice in here I couldn’t miss.”

As for the Clippers—with all five of last year’s starters gone to graduation—to say it will be a rebuilding year is an understatement. Still, with talented guards and height inside, the Clippers have the right tools. It is just a matter of sharpening them up for varsity competition, Fredrickson said.

“There are enough pieces there, enough individual talent there. But as structured as we played last year, we’ve got to play even more structured this year. These kids can be successful. They can have a very good season. We just need to play a very structured brand of basketball offensively and defensively and not beat ourselves. We have to limit our mistakes.”

The Clippers will continue with summer competition with a multi-team scrimmage at Minnesota State Mankato today (Wednesday, July 27).  

The gym will host its first official competition on August 24 with a varsity volleyball “jamboree.”

With a Madelia player defending, Lucas Walechka goes up for a shot.

Max Mettler fights off a GHET/T/ML defender.

Blake Lyons goes mano-a-mano with a GHEC/T/ML defender.

Alex Johnson releases a jumper.

Carter Barto puts up an inside shot.

Wyatte Devens tosses up a layup. Devens, a senior, transferred from West this summer. He is still sorting out his eligibility, so he may play either varsity or B-squad.

Sandwiched by a couple of GHEC/T defenders, Braeden Hastings drives to the iron.

Kyle Connor looks for an opening.

Inaugurating the new gym were, L-R, front row: Braeden Hastings, Blake Lyons, Jorden Rossow, Gabriel Sullivan and Kyle Connor. Back row: Wyatte Devens, Lucas Walechka, Carter Barto, Max Mettler and Alex Johnson.