Hornets hand out awards to finish out the season

Basketball awards were delayed with the closure of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn’t stop coach Dusty Burish from handing out year-end recognitions.

“I would like to thank the players for their hard work, and efforts on, and off, the court,” said Burish. “The boys put a lot of time into this season, and for my first year as a head coach, I couldn’t have been happier with the progress we made together.”

The season ended with an 8-14 record and the Hornets getting their first conference win in two years. Burish says the seven-man squad represented Cadott in a very positive way.

Leading in scoring, senior Mason Poehls adjusted his game to another level, taking on the role of an all-around scorer, instead of just an outside threat.

“Posting up all season, really help set the tone early in most games,” said Burish.

For his efforts, Poehls received the team’s MVP Award and was named to First Team All-Conference.

Fellow senior Mitch Drilling was a huge help inside, on both ends of the court, according to Burish, who says Drilling kept the Hornets in the game with his boards. Drilling was named as Team Captain, received the Hustle Award and was named All-Chippewa County.

“He brought a work ethic, and intensity during games and practices,” said Burish.

Burish says senior Ben Steffes, Team Captain, was also a great asset on the court and acted as a team leader off the court.

“He led by example every game, plus, was a great help on the bench and in halftime, helping us make game changes,” said Burish.

Junior Brad Irwin was chosen as the Leading Rebounder of the Year, making All-Chippewa County. Burish says Irwin used his athleticism to score and collect rebounds.

“He was also able to play inside and outside the paint, all season long,” said Burish, “along with covering the opponents’ best players.”

Receiving Most Improved Player of the Year, was sophomore Cole Sopiarz, as a high energy, fast guard, gathering a lot of rebounds.

“He did a great job pushing the ball, penetrating and scoring at mid-range, and setting up scoring opportunities for teammates…” said Burish.

Last but not least, freshmen Tegan Ritter and Eddie Mittermeyer were named Defensive Player of the Year, and Playmaker of the Year, respectively.

“Tegan did a great job with his high energy on both ends of the court and stepping up to cover every team’s best player,” said Burish. “And Eddie also did a great job staying poised, bringing up the ball at point for us, setting up offenses and creating plays all season long, with his scoring and passing on the court.”