PBHS boys looks to varsity veterans to lead the way

Written by Katie Morford Tuesday, 29 November 2011 16:39

Anchoring the Peabody-Burns boys’ team this season are these seniors and letter­ winners: back row (from left), Matt Hiebert, Seth Topham, Brody Kyle, Christian Gard; front row, Wesley Shaw, Hunter Pickens and Austin Savage.

The Peabody-Burns boys will have to capitalize on their base of returning varsity experience this year if they’re going to improve on last season’s 5-16 record, which included a loss in the first round of sub-state.

“The team will have better depth with the return of two seniors Matt Hiebert and Brody Kyle,” coach Brian Simmonds said.

Both Hiebert and Kyle were starters on last year’s squad.

“But most of the depth of the team will come from the junior ranks.”

Three returning letter-winners—Hunter Pickens, Austin Savage and Seth Topham—are expected to make significant contributions this season, too.

Another junior looking to play at the varsity level this year is a 6-foot guard Christian Gard.

Also joining the team this season after recovering from a football injury last season is senior Wesley Shaw at the post position.

“The Warriors should have considerable depth at guard, but will be thin at the post position,” Simmons said. “The seniors will be called on to fill leadership roles as the team finds its identity. The varsity experience should help us compete early in the schedule as players find their roles on the team.”

The Warriors are scheduled to begin their season Friday with a home game against Chase County.