Football season is over, but Bradwell athletics are just getting warmed up, with basketball next on the schedule. Practice officially started Oct. 30, and I had the chance to talk with second-year head coach Will Douberly, who leads the boys’ program at BI. Last year, in his first season at the helm, Douberly led the Tigers to an 11-12 record, an improvement from the 6-19 mark from 2015.

Now, moving into year two, he expects continued improvement, especially with team culture. High expectations, positive team interactions, and improved leadership skills have been primary focuses early this season.

“My main expectation is that my players will give me their best effort and a positive attitude,” Douberly said. “I expect the players to focus on building up their teammates and building relationships with each other.”

Height and length will be strengths of the Tigers on the court, with 11 players standing 6-0 or better. Four of BI’s returning seniors — K.J. Milner, Da’shaun Coleman, Ronald Canty and Khalyn Weekley — are 6’2 or taller. Four juniors also eclipse the 6’2 mark — Javonte Lecounte, Cedric Golphin, Isiah Scott and De’vaughn Felder.

Douberly understands that height doesn’t equal perfection, and that mistakes will be made. He just hopes his players can grow from experience.

“I expect our team to be mentally tough,” he said. “When we make mistakes, we learn from them and move on.”

Bradwell’s season kicks off Saturday against crosstown rival Liberty. Douberly isn’t focused on individuals standing out or having star performances. He’s more worried about how players accept their role on the team and how his players represent BI.

“I expect our players to represent the school well and to take pride in doing the right things,” he said. “We expect the players to buy into the concept that the team’s welfare and integrity is more important than individual stats or playing time.”

Couch is Bradwell Institute football coach. He’s also a former award winning sportswriter.