WINONA LAKE - The 2004-05 Lakeland Christian Academy Cougars have their sights on returning to the Association of Christian Schools International Tournament finals for the third time in four years.
This won't be an easy task as last year's leading scorer, John Franklin, has graduated, leaving some big shoes to fill.
Senior Jonathan Steele is the Cougars' inside threat, looking to add to his 9.8 points per game from last season. 2003-04 sixth man Kenny Fawley also looks to increase production following an eight-points-per-game freshman year.
Curtis Krumreich could be the biggest surprise for the Cougars offensively this season. His shot has become more consistent over the off-season and he has gained a lot of confidence.
Defensively, the Cougars look to use their guard quickness with Craig Wilson, Seth McIntire and Dan Yocum to keep teams guessing which defense they'll be in. Inside, Scott King and Derek Lavender will assist center Jonathan Steele in keeping teams off the offensive glass.
The Cougars recently added two international students to their roster to go along with the two they already had in 5-foot-10 Bemba Sylla and 5-8 Ramez Saleh. The new additions are 6-6 center Guy Alang Ntang and 6-1 guard Destin Damachoua.
With the addition of more IHSAA teams to their schedule, the Cougars welcome the opportunity to compete against top programs in the area.
LCA's 2003-04 record was 16-7 and the Cougars are currently 2-2 this season. This year's goals are to return to the ACSI finals, win their own Cougar Classic later this month and become more competitive with IHSAA schools.
LCA BOYS ROSTER
Name Grade Ht.
Craig Wilson 12 5-7
Johnathan Steele 12 6-6
Scott King 12 6-3
Ryan Addair 12 6-3
Dan Yocum 12 5-7
Ramez Saleh 12 5-8
Bemba Sylla 12 5-8
Curtis Krumreich 12 6-2
Seth McIntire 12 6-2
Derek Lavender 11 6-3
Guy Alang Ntang 11 6-6
Destin Damachoua 11 6-2
Kenny Fawley 10 5-9
Joel Franklin 9 5-9