The Thrall Tigers varsity boys' basketball team has faced a tough start to the season, holding a 2-13 record as it heads into district play.
The challenges were expected, with the Tigers needing to replace key players from last year and adjust to first-year Head Coach Zachary Tatro following the departure of former Head Coach Charles Tindol. Tatro spoke about the difficulties of managing so much roster turnover and limited varsity experience.
“We lost a lot of guys and returned only one player who has meaningful varsity minutes,” Tatro said. “We’re asking guys to step into roles they’ve never been in before, so I’ve had to make practices extremely competitive to bring out the best in them.”
Offensive struggles have been a significant hurdle for the Tigers, who are averaging just 33.2 points per game and have yet to break the 50-point mark this season. While Tatro acknowledged the issues, he emphasized the natural growing pains that come with introducing a new system and said he’s encouraged by the team’s progress.
“When you bring in a new philosophy, a new offense and a new scheme, it takes time to get everything installed,” Tatro said. “We were slow out of the gates, but we’re making strides in the right direction with each game.”
Despite the rocky start, Tatro said the players’ effort and attitude have been bright spots throughout the season.
“It’s been great,” he said. “Our kids come in with an awesome mindset. They want to work, and they want to compete.”
Tatro and the Tigers will look to improve their record as they face Rogers on Dec. 20 before competing in the Troy Tournament on Dec. 27-28.
Thrall Tigers Head Coach Zachary Tatro looks on as his team competes in a 65-37 loss to the Holland Hornets on Dec. 10. Photo courtesy of Larry Pelchat
