The Inside Hoop on the 2022 Basketball Season

Since the switch to online school, the girls and boys basketball teams have faced an extreme disruption to their season. Before school went online, the team only had a total of four-pre-season practices. On the day of the team’s first practice, the Guangdong Educational Board announced the move to online learning. Today, a week before the start of Winter break, the short-lived 2022 basketball season has officially come to a close.

Prior to the COVID lockdown, the varsity basketball coaches, David Barrette and Corey Kydd, decided that in the midst of delayed practices the girls and boys team would not be making cuts unless necessary to do so for team travel for tournaments. Little did they know, the season would be delayed for its entirety due to COVID restrictions

As a result of the rise of COVID in Guangzhou, the Rams, sadly, had yet another season without the Tri-Cities or Asia Pacific Athletic Conference (APAC) tournaments; but for the first time in three years, were not even permitted to participate in a single regular game.

While school was online, the girls and guys’ teams still made efforts to stay in shape in case they were able to un-pause the season. Activities such as group runs, trips to the gym, visits to nearby courts, and working on dribbling techniques allowed players to stay in shape and maintain ball skills as they awaited any possible continuation in their season.

While it was disappointing that neither team was able to put their skills to use, it can be agreed that their determination and dedication to basketball is extremely admirable. Both teams’ ability to make the best of their situation and find outlets from the pressures of online school set a good example for AISG athletics and their dedication to their sports and community.

Last year’s captain, senior, Sophia P. put it best when she said:

“Despite the fact that we did not get a proper season this year, I was really inspired by all the effort the girls put into pre-season practices and could really feel the excitement everyone had for basketball. Although the seniors won’t be able to play again next year, it is still so great to see how the future varsity team will look like!”

Likewise, last year’s captain, senior, Richie L. perfectively captured both teams’ sentiments in the statement:

“On behalf of both the guys and girls team, we would like to thank our coaches, Mr. Kydd and Mr. Barrette, and the rest of the Athletic Department for trying their best to advocate for us and push for more practice time despite the difficult situation. We are extremely grateful for their commitment to us as well as the sport.”