St. Dominic saw a grueling 1-18 season last year for the boys’ varsity basketball team. This year, the tables have turned. St. Dominic welcomes Mr. Roberts, the new head coach for the team, and the new college guidance coordinator for freshman and sophomore students.

A native to St. Louis, Mr. Roberts graduated from DeSmet High School and attended Southeast Missouri State on a basketball scholarship. After college he worked at Notre Dame High School in Cape Girardeau for 14 years. After the birth of his third child, he moved back to St. Louis. Now as a college guidance coordinator, Mr. Roberts is a very busy man. On a daily basis, he meets with hundreds of students. From homework to college plans, Mr. Roberts is passionate about helping students succeed.When he is not helping students, he is behind the scenes doing extra work, such as setting up the student testing days, St. Dominic’s ACT, the upcoming career day in March, and coaching the boys’ varsity basketball team.

In light of last year, Roberts, now in his 9th year as a head coach, believes St. Dominic has a shot at a promising season.

“We’re going to be good. We’ve got guys who are working hard who are going to come in with a new system and really excel. It’s going to be a lot of fun,” said Coach Roberts.

Senior Evan Heinrich also believes the team has a good shot.

“Everyone on the team has a mindset that we will do better. New coach, new offense, new team. Same players, but everyone is re-energized about the sport. I think we will be successful.”

Senior Jake Smith and junior Matt Hagan both agree the team will be “much more successful than last year.” While the line-up may seem promising, the team still has to break through the conditioning barrier.

“The way we have to play this year, we have to be in shape. We still have a lot to do. We’re still huffing and puffing out there,” said Coach Roberts.

Aside from the conditioning, the players are handling the practices exceptionally well.

“Practice is up tempo. We only go an hour and a half, but we get a lot done,” said Hagan.

As for the fans who can’t wait for the season to start, Mr. Roberts has a promise.

“We’re going to put a good product on the floor and play as hard as we can. It’s going to be good to watch.”

The season opens Tuesday, November 25, against University City right here at SDHS. The team really hopes you pack the gym!