Dec 10, 2009
DEFENSE KEYS OAK LAWNS DRIVE FOR COURT SUCCESS

De-Fense. De-Fense. With determination, good team chemistry and solid work ethic on defense, the Oak Lawn Community High School Boys Basketball team is looking to build on its 7-19 record from a year ago in which it set an all-time school record for fewest average points allowed per game.
The Spartans certainly opened the season in the right way with a last-second victory over Andrew, but now the job is to keep improving and prepare for bigger and better things.
Our goals are to get better every day and to compete at the top of the [South Suburban Red] conference, head coach Scott Atkins said. We also want to advance in the state tournament.
Last years Most Valuable Player Colin Altenburg will play a major role in just how much success this years version of the Spartans can attain. He was the leading scorer, rebounder and an all-conference selection. Senior Andrew Barlos gives Oak Lawn size in the middle with a 6-foot-7 frame. Fellow senior Tom March is a three-point threat with good jump shot ability, and junior Callen Moore gives the squad another scoring threat.
Our team chemistry and off-season commitment and work-ethic have been very good this year, Atkins said. Our practices have been very competitive, we have good team depth, and we have a collection of players who are willing to put the team concerns ahead of their own personal concerns. If we continue to improve on a daily basis as we have for the first two-three weeks, this could be a very exciting season for us.
In looking ahead to the season as a fan, there are two dates to circle on the calendar for special events. On January 8, 2010, OLCHS is honoring the career and jersey number of Jim Bo Bocinsky. He was the second leading scorer on the 1971, second-place team in state. He was also team captain at DePaul University under Coach Ray Meyer. And on January 21, 2010, the Spartans will host the always popular Paint the Gym Purple. The team will support the schools effort with Relay for Life.