Ben Lippen’s Mitchell Deter Coach Mick Shoemaker enters the 2009–2010 season with his Ben Lippen boys’ basketball squad hoping to build off last year’s momentum. The Falcons finished last year with a 19–11 season that included a loss in the state semifinals to eventual champion Pinewood Prep.

Coach Shoemaker will rely on senior leadership to carry the team from guards Mitchell Deter and Andre Hennie and forwards Gabe Smith and Gray Welborn. Along with the seniors, Coach Shoemaker will count on junior guards Chad Burnett and Derek Snelgrove as well as junior forward Drew Fraley to provide depth.

One key for Coach Shoemaker, if he wants to have success this year, is to improve in rebounding. Defense is another area the Falcons need to shore up if they want to achieve their goals in 2009–2010.

“My goal for this team is to improve every week. I want us to be as good as last year or better,” Coach Shoemaker said.