Joshua Hinojosa first year head coach for the Anton Bulldogs, has his sights set on getting his team to the playoffs this season.
The Bulldogs fell short of a playoff spot last year, finishing the season with an 8-11 record.
Coach Hinojosa expects some growing pains throughout the 2021-2022 season.
“There is going to be a mixture of returners and some fresh young players on the roster this year,” explained Hinojosa. “Naturally, there will be some growing pains due to the learning curve for the new guys.”
Coach Hinojosa is leaning on his returning starters to lead the team and set the example for them. Guards Jack Champion and Ashton Martinez are two of three starting returners along with center Edmundo Avalos.
Additional returners include guards Gage Garcia, Rayden Cooper and center Lane Vellinga.
“All I want is for my guys to be competitive in every game and lay down a foundation that we can continue to build off of,” according to Hinojosa.
The Bulldogs have two freshman coming off the bench to offer a spark on both sides of the court.
“Gavin Martinez is a solid freshman that we are going to turn to for offense and hustle plays on the defensive side of the court,” explained coach Hinojosa. “Jose Avalos is going to be our guy for soaking up minutes on the court.” Coach Hinojosa has experience winning on the court and creating positive opportunities for his teams.
As an assistant coach for Grandfalls High School, he helped the girls varsity team to two Bi-District championships.
Now after two years as an assistant for the Bulldogs, Coach Hinojosa is eager to see what his team is capable of in district play.
“We play in a hard district that is competitive every night,” said Hinojosa.
After a difficult non-district schedule, coach Hinojosa hopes battling tough teams will have prepared the Bulldogs for success in district play.