It’s finally that time of year where audiences chant under the glow of gymnasium lights and the sound of basketballs pounding against the hardwood floor echoes throughout the arena. The long-awaited Dolphin basketball season is back.
An exhilarating couple of years transpired for both teams as excitement and anticipation build for upcoming games. The last two years, the women’s team made it to the North West Athletic Conference playoffs, where they outperformed expectations.
“We are hoping they will return this year for a third time. The men have been close to making the playoffs the last two years but fell short,” Athletic Director Steve Eskridge said.
Both SCC’s basketball teams consist of very young players this year. Despite that, no worries, because the women’s team have two key returners: Taylor Elderedge, who was freshmen of the year, and Leiah Naeata, who will be an anchor of leadership for the ’Phins this season. With that, the crowd should be excited to watch if the Dolphins can compete for a Northern Region title this year. The men’s team is also bringing in very young athletes, with only one returning sophomore Jamikal Davis, who will be a key player for the Dolphins. Even so, fans should be very hopeful that they will be able to compete in the top half of the Northern region this season.
Anticipating a season of growth and triumph on the basketball court, SCC proudly unveils its coaching lineup and accomplished athletic director. Their strategy: to elevate the basketball program to new achievements and experience.
Heading the charge for the men’s team is Aaron Mackey, with Terrance King and Lewis Cramer, stepping in as Assistant Coaches. Meanwhile, at the helm of the women’s team is Rodney Walker, taking on the role of Head Coach. Assisting him is Dennis Harrison. Their expertise will create a seamless blend of strategy and skill development.
Behind this coaching lineup stands SCC’s very own Athletic Director, Steve Eskridge. He has been the Athletic Director for nine years now. With the amazing milestones lately, he has a proven track record of fostering athletic excellence.
“Once I took over, I knew I could make a difference in the department. After three months, I went through the hiring process, interviewed for the job, and became the permanent Athletic Director for Shoreline Community College in the winter of 2014,” he explained.
Eskridge’s experience creates a promising vision, steering both teams toward success, creating an environment conducive to growth and achievement. It’s no surprise that he’s capable of doing so, as he played many different sports growing up but primarily played basketball in college for the Community Colleges of Spokane, as well as another NWAC college in the Eastern region.
As the clock ticks down to the first whistle and euphoric atmosphere, the opening match is not just a game; it’s an opportunity for Dolphin fans to come together and cheer for their team, setting the tone for a season filled with unforgettable moments.
Don’t forget to keep a look out once the season gets warmer for SCC’s rivals, Edmonds and Bellevue college. Every year these are very exciting games as these schools are SCC’s most well-known opponents.
“We are expecting and enthusiastic to see where both teams will be at the end of February and hope that both teams will be competing in the NWAC Championship Playoffs in March. We are anticipating a good year for our teams and looking forward to their up-tempo style of basketball.” Steve Eskridge said, with hopes for the best. “Go ’Phins!”
For basketball schedules, visit:
shoreline.edu/athletics/mens-basketball/schedule.aspx
shoreline.edu/athletics/womens-basketball/schedule.aspx
