Bethel College Men's Basketball

Bethel College Men’s Basketball enters the 2009-2010 season with many new faces. They should be bigger at almost every position but not deep in experience. Seniors Aaron Gingerich (5’8”), Brody Grove (5’10”), and Shawn Sullivan (6’1”) should see plenty of time at the guard spots, but they will be pushed by sophomores Trey Ronnebaum (6’1”), Eric Regier (5’8”), and John Watson (6’1”). Freshmen guards Cody Riggs (6’0”) from Sterling, Robert Wright (6’1”) from Lawrence, Nathan Yunker (6’2”) from South Haven, and Justin Baldia (6’2”) from Lewisville, Texas, may also add to the depth on the perimeter.

The inside game is led by junior Matt Regier (6’5”), sophomores Austin Bumgarner(6’5”) and Ri’Tea Acosta (6’6”), and newcomers, junior Justin Schneider (6’8”) and freshmen Ryan Cummins (6’9”) and A.J. Benton (6’6”).

Getting back to basics is the emphasis this fall as the Threshers prepare for the season. Doing a better job of taking care of the basketball, solid defense, and rebounding are the three top priorities for the coaching staff. The added size should help in the rebounding department, but entering a season with every position wide open makes it difficult to predict what this group is capable of. The work ethic in pre-season conditioning has been excellent and a number of returning players made good use of their summer workouts to get stronger and more confident. Early season success could be the key to the season.

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With not a large amount of experience returning, the team has come together as a single unit. We have turned to basic fundamentals, along with a hard-nosed, 'in your face', type of play. With hard work on and off the court, we will work to FLIP THE SCRIPT, which should lead to a successful, entertaining season for all. — Trey Ronnebaum