Gladiators Ready To Play

Anne Sutherland Posted December 28, 2010 2:45pm Italy Gladiator Basketball

Image: Gladiators unite — The Italy Gladiators took on the Venus Bulldogs for pre-district play. The win over the Dawgs helped the varsity team get ready for district. — Gladiators unite — The Italy Gladiators took on the Venus Bulldogs for pre-district play. The win over the Dawgs helped the varsity team get ready for district. (Anne Sutherland)

With a final score of 58-54 against the Venus Bulldogs, the Italy Varsity, led by Coach Aiden Callahan. “The Bulldogs played with an expect to win attitude. They are a great club,” said Coach Callahan. “They did a good job taking care of the ball. However, our kids persevered and played through. I am proud of them.”

The Varsity boys have played their hearts out for their new coach. The group has practiced and played hard to prepare for district play.

The first district game was Tuesday, Dec. 21 in Whitney-their first district win.

The Castlebury Tournament, Dec 27-29, will be tough play for the Gladiators. “We will play up with 3A & 4A schools. The Mineral Wells (3A) game at the American Airlines Center (Dec 30) will be a challenge as well. My hope is they will be challenged enough to come ready for district and be prepared,” Callahan said.

Mayberry has the jump — Gladiator Larry Mayberry and Bulldog Josh Smith start the game. (Anne Sutherland)

Defense strong — Mayberry blocks Venus from the points. (Anne Sutherland)

Run it down — Colten Campbell keeps his strength against Venus. (Anne Sutherland)

Yell for the win — IHS cheerleaders lead the crowd in support. (Anne Sutherland)

Simmons up — Devonte Simmons goes up and adds two. (Anne Sutherland)

Sephus scores — De’Andre Sephus gets to the basket first. (Anne Sutherland)

Ashcraft searches — Ryan Ashcraft searches for help. (Anne Sutherland)

Hopkins defends — Cole Hopins grabs the ball from the enemy. (Anne Sutherland)

Clemons shoots — Heath Clemons takes his time at the free throw line. (Anne Sutherland)

I got it — Clemons and Smith reach for the ball. (Anne Sutherland)

Rettig defends — De’Andre Rettig helps teammate make the basket. (Anne Sutherland)

Go around him — Sephus throws the ball out of the Bulldogs’ range. (Anne Sutherland)

Add another point — Rettig adds another point on the board. (Anne Sutherland)

Rushing through — Campbell goes through the Venus defense. (Anne Sutherland)

A great game — Gladiators vs Bulldogs. It was a good, equal game. (Anne Sutherland)