Athletes of the Week: Boys Varsity Basketball

By: Michael Yang

The remote start of winter term has motivated the Boys Varsity Basketball to work harder than ever. Captains Robbie Stankard and Lucas McEachern have kept the team connected and in shape, anticipating their return to the courts in February. 

McEachern has played basketball since a young age. “I grew up in France watching basketball with my dad, and I think my first time playing was at a camp when I was four or five.

As McEachern grew up, he gained many friendships from participating in various teams. “The relationships I've made have changed my life in so many good ways,” McEachern said. “The discipline, sacrifice, hard work and countless hours that come with playing at such a high level are skills that I will take with me in anything I do in life. These skills are priceless, and I think sports are a great way to develop them.”

Stankard has a similar story. “I have been playing basketball since before I can remember. It is truly my favorite thing to do, so I love any time I get in a gym,” Stankard said. “As for why I have continued playing at such a competitive level, I think as a young kid I never expected myself to be able to reach the level I’m playing at right now and where I am projected to be after four years of college basketball, so I am really just seeing how far I can go with it and enjoying every day!”

To stay connected, the captains organized team workouts on Zoom with their coaches and their teammates. McEachern noted that the team has rotated workout leaders each session. Stankard added, “We also have our own group chat that’s always busy.” 

Upper teammate Andreas Lorgen testified to the captains’ strong teamwork. “[The captains] are always available if we need them and they have kept us updated throughout this entire period,” A. Lorgen said. “They are both incredibly hard workers and very positive guys and they act as role models for all of us both on and off the court.” 

Prep Marcus Lorgen agreed. “As a new guy this year I experienced that Robbie and Lucas were very welcoming,” M. Lorgen said. “They’ve been a big part of why I feel so comfortable on the team, where everyone is older than me. In practice they have been great role models, working hard and having a focus on what we need to accomplish as a team, despite the year being complicated.” 

Stankard and McEachern’s dedication has had an infectious effect. “Robbie and Lucas have set the example for the team through these times by showing up early and working hard,” upper Elijah Porras said. “For each workout, they show up early, focused, and ready to work. Robbie and Lucas set the tone for the rest of us to follow. They show up each and every day, and they motivate each and every one of us to push ourselves and get better.” 

Upper Fawaz Omidiya said, “They’re both very honest and hardworking and help bring the team closer on and off the court.”

Many players on the team practice their skills at home through staying in shape and finding opportunities to play ball. “I have gotten to practice with a pro team here in Oslo, Norway, along with my brother,” Lorgen ‘24 said. “Aside from team practices, I have access to the team gym, where I’ve been working on my skills. At home I’ve been working out by doing ball handling in the basement, as well as lifting and doing plyometrics.”

Team members also cited the involvement of their coaches as a factor for success. “We are lucky to have such great support from both Coach Tilton and Coach Fishel. Together, we were able to make the best out of a really unfortunate situation,” Stankard said. 

Even with their persistence and efforts to keep the team unified, the captains have faced many challenges. “It's hard to foster a sense of competition and improvement on camera, but we try our best,” McEachern said. Stankard added, “I think the biggest thing that has affected the team this term is just not being able to play games. I know that the administration is trying to help us orchestrate intramural games when we get back, and we understand the constraints they are under and we appreciate their support, but there’s still nothing that’ll truly compare to suiting up to play another school, especially Andover.”

McEachern was optimistic about the team’s future. “The news about our season was devastating, as it has been for anyone who lost theirs, but we have made it a point to use this time to improve and set ourselves up for success when the opportunity arises,” McEachern said. 

Being a part of the Exeter basketball team has impacted Stankard and McEachern in significant ways. “My days have revolved around working out, and staying in shape because of the level of competition, and overall need to be in top shape,” McEachern said. “The ambition to perform on the court and pursue this sport in college has taken the reins of my life in the sense that I watch what I eat, watch how I sleep, and make it a priority to take care of my body.” 

Stankard emphasised McEachern’s comments and stated, “Not only have I grown as a player, but I have learned so much, and I have also made amazing friends along the way.”

Despite current circumstances, Stankard and McEachern were eager to get back to the courts. “Although the impact of Covid-19 is not ideal, I am still excited just to be back in the gym with the guys and hopefully, we can help each other get better as we get ready for next year,” Stankard said. McEachern added, “Having sixteen weeks of uninterrupted play and working out is a real opportunity to transform our bodies and reach a whole new level. Scary hours in New Hampshire!” 

Porras described Stankard and McEachern’s leadership and dedication as “the epitome of leaders by example.” 

Stankard reflected fondly on the season thus far. “We had a really special group this year, and I am sad that we were never able to truly show how good we could be together. However, I am really proud of how we have come together even without the possibility of playing games,” Stankard said. “It is truly a testament to Coach Tilton and the quality of the guys that make up this program. I am so grateful to be a part of such a special group.”