NORTH MANCHESTER – The Manchester Squires aren't there yet, but coach Eric Thompson says they're headed in the right direction. Now in his third season at Manchester, where basketball has long been beloved though the Squires haven't had a winning season since going 12-10 under Gary Goshert during the 2001-2002 campaign, Thompson's system is in place and he has experienced-players on his roster. Two years ago, Thompson arrived on the scene with the task of returning Manchester to its glory days. The Squires, adjusting to a new system, went 4-17 overall and 1-6 in Three Rivers Conference play. Last year, Manchester improved its record, finishing the season 7-15 overall and 2-5 in TRC action. Getting better as the season went along, the Squires advanced to the sectional championship game, falling 51-47 to county rival Northfield. With four starters back this season, including its top three scorers, Manchester appears primed to continue its turnaround. “I wouldn't say we're there yet, but we're headed in the right direction,” said Thompson. “The guys put in a lot of time in the summer. They worked hard when we were together as a team, and also worked hard on their skills by themselves at the park or in the driveway at home. It's been a lot of fun working with these guys. They really want to get better. Their hard work shows that.” Starters returning from last year include seniors Claudel Dickantone, Clayton Petrie and Phoenix Goad, and sophomore Chase Fierstos. Others who saw varsity action last year include juniors Branden scott, Cameron Brandenburg and Lucas Shilling, as well as sophomore Braydon Sewell. “We've got nine kids who are very close and fighting for minutes,” said Thompson. “From a coaching standpoint, that's a good thing. We can put any of those nine players on the floor. Just because you started last year doesn't mean you're guaranteed to start this year.” The rest of Manchester's varsity roster includes senior Micah McDaniel, sophomores Bailey Ness and Keelan Norwood and freshman David McAtee. The Squires open the season Wednesday when they host Mississinewa, followed by a home game Saturday with Oak Hill. Manchester will then play a five-game stretch that includes four road games. During that span, the Squires will play at Wawasee (Dec. 6), Huntington North (Dec. 14), Southwood (Dec. 20) and Leo (Dec. 21). The other contest during that stretch is a home game with Warsaw on Dec. 12. Huntington North, Leo and Warsaw are all new to the schedule this season. “We beefed up the schedule," said Thompson. “Those three schools have a lot of tradition. It's going to benefit us come sectional time, and it's an honor that they would play us. We're close (in location) to Huntington North and Warsaw. Those games could turn into nice local rivalries.” Manchester hasn't had a winning season or won a conference championship in more than a decade. Both are goals for the Squires this season. “We want to have a winning season,” said Thompson. “We want to be major contenders in the TRC. We want to be major contenders to win the sectional and beyond. The guys are working hard. We're headed in the right direction.”
