Photo from Lifetouch: Xaire Henriquez-Lappots ’24 warms up for a game.
By Azariah Smith ’23
After a tough but determined basketball season, the boys had an overall record of 0-20. Throughout the season, most of the boys were determined and committed to the team, but this did not apply to all players. Thankfully, student fans had enough determination to show up and cheer on the basketball team even at away games.
Robert Swierbitowicz, assistant coach and DHS business teacher, shared that even though the season was disappointing, he “loved being involved with the kids during the day. Basketball is a passion of mine; I was never good at basketball, but I enjoy being around the kids.” Sweirbitowicz is a very friendly face around the school and loved being around the basketball players even on his free periods. Junior-varsity player Jacob Ramirez ‘26 said, “The coaching was really good, but I feel like we didn’t use the coaching in games.”
The boys on the basketball team were dedicated this year; they mostly showed up to all of their practices and games. “The kids showed up to practice when they needed to, and some of the JV kids did so well with showing up and playing,” Swierbitowicz stated. When coaches canceled practice, many would still find a way to practice together, and by them being on this team, they’ve formed new relationships. Ramirez said his favorite part of the season was meeting new people.
Students at Derby High School have said wonderful things about the basketball team and showed a lot of support at the games. Sean Fearnley ‘23 stated that he went to almost all of the basketball games this year, and explained how he really enjoyed going to the games. The school spirit was even strong at away games. At the Derby vs. Ansonia game, for example, many DHS fans showed up and were cheering very loudly for Derby. Jocelyn Berrious ‘23 described this game to be “very intense and fun.”
Next year, we hope to see even more school spirit and for the games we hope to see some wins!
The Raider Press 