For many students, freshman year is their first real taste of high school athletics and for the freshman boys basketball team, their coach, Mr. Lovering plays a crucial role in shaping that experience. The GHS freshman basketball coach brings a strong focus on fundamentals to the program, helping young athletes grow both on and off the court.

Mr. Lovering shared that his motivation for coaching freshmen comes from the opportunity to build players from the ground up. At this level, the focus isn’t just on winning games, but on developing basic skills. Coaching freshmen differs greatly from coaching older players, as many are still adjusting to the expectations and structure of high school sports.

One of the biggest challenges freshmen face is the jump from middle school to high school. Mr. Lovering helps players adjust by meeting them where they are and teaching them how to work  together as a team. Emphasis is placed on learning communication, and situational awareness.

When it comes to tactics, Mr. Lovering balances teaching fundamentals with building confidence. Mistakes are treated as learning moments, and practices focus on keeping everyone on the same page. Teamwork plays a major role at the freshman level, as players are encouraged to support one another and communicate constantly on the court.

Motivation is another key part of Lovering’s coaching approach. For players who feel nervous or unsure, the Coach Lovering sets clear expectations and reminds them that effort and improvement matter more than perfection. He also stresses respect for teammates and opponents. This season, Lovering noted how prepared and resilient the team has become, which has been one of the most rewarding parts of coaching freshmen. Success, he explained, isn’t defined by the scoreboard, but by improvement and readiness for the next level.

Freshman sports play an important role in a school’s athletic program, helping students transition into high school while building skills that last beyond one season. With a focus on growth, communication, and connection, our freshman basketball coach is laying a strong foundation for the future of the program.