Paonia boys short on numbers, big on talent

Photo by Tamie Meck Lane Clawson is one of six returning varsity players returning this season for Paonia. The varsity squad will be small in number but big on talent.Only half of last year's varsity players for Paonia are returning to the court this season. With a total of 16 players out for the team, head coach Chase Roeber is taking the glass-is-half-full attitude.

The returning players ­— seniors Lane Clawson and Taylor Katzer, juniors Jason Sturgis, Ben Linnell, Eric Carney and Josiah Spano — are all within the 6-foot range and bring enthusiasm and experience to the court. Taylor Walters, who averaged more than 10 points per game as a freshman, will be a full-time player on the varsity team.

The balance of the players will compete on both C team and JV squads, with at least two players being considered for varsity later in the season. "They will get a lot of experience on the court, a lot of play time," said Roeber.

Brent McRae, the former head girls' coach and assistant boys' coach for Custer County, will be the assistant and junior varsity/C-team coach.

The Eagles will host five of their first six games. Their home- and season-opener, scheduled for last Saturday against Rifle, was postponed since the Bears were playing in the state championship football game. That game will be re-scheduled.

The Eagles hosted Olathe (0-1, 3A WSL) Tuesday, and this Friday will host Grand Valley's Cardinals (0-2, 3A WSL) for a 7 p.m. tipoff.

"We'll see how well we can protect our home," said Roeber.

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