Weatherly head coach Luke Medico expects junior point guard Ian McKeegan to adopt a leadership role for his team this winter.

McKeegan has certainly embraced the role and made his intentions quite clear despite the team’s 2-21 record last season.

“I see this team as a great, hardworking group of players who have great chemistry,” said McKeegan, who is the team’s leading returning scorer after averaging 12.2 point per game. “I see myself as one of the main scorers and facilitators on the team, and one of the leaders.

“Without a doubt, I think we’re going take a huge step from last year’s season and seasons prior. We are ready to shock everyone this year.”

Medico, who will begin his second season at the helm, will look to McKeegan, fellow junior guard Corbin Wagner (11.8 ppg) and forward Niko Saldukas (9.6 ppg) as the Wreckers’ scoring trifecta.

“Ian is our floor general and a fantastic ball handler and decision maker,” said Medico. “Corbin is quick with a great shot, and Niko can play every position on the floor.”

Up front, Medico will look to returnees in senior John Dornish and sophomore Chance Stauffer, who both will again be counted on for their grit and determination in the paint.

“Pound for pound, Chance is the strongest and fastest guy on the team,” said Medico. “He does whatever it takes for us to win. John also is unbelievably strong with zero quit in him.”

Medico also expects contributions in the rotation from junior guard Brandon Davis, who has a solid shooting touch; sophomore point guard Dominic Kokinda, who has shown to be a solid ball handler; and fellow sophomore guard/forward Matt Adler, another consistent shooter and competitor.

With a relatively young returning squad that endured its growing pains last season, Medico anticipates his team will sharpen its focus and rely on its experience, as well as its defense, speed, and agility.

Although they will battle through some size disadvantages, Medico knows it’s time to raise the bar from last season.

“I expect our guys to show up every day and put forth their best effort,” said Medico. “We can control playing with heart, and putting forth the best effort we possibly can. The focus will always be on what we can control.

“Our goal for this season is to make sure everyone knows we are not just showing up to play. We are showing up each game with the goal of winning.”

McKeegan has already seen enough from his teammates to believe the Wreckers can make some noise this winter. Weatherly averaged 49.9 points and allowed 67.2 points last season.

“Our practices have been really good,” said McKeegan. “We’ve made a huge change in the way we were practicing compared to last year.

“I think it’s bettering us as players, and it will show.”