Clark State Boys Wins Late, Prepares For Top Team in OCCAC (Hocking) Tonight;

 Clark State Boys Wins Late, Prepares For Top Team in OCCAC (Hocking) Tonight

By Deon Cash

The Clark State Eagles mens team have faced adversity all season. 

 They started slow, have had players injured, have lost half the team, had games cancelled, and other issues that hinder rising junior college programs from flourishing.

Last week the team got smacked around on the road. While it felt like the season was slipping away, Head Coach Quinton Alstork knew he had to keep the ship tight. 

 Alstork decided that instead of running his team into the ground or yelling at them, he decided to go a different route.

Team bonding. 

Alstork held a team meeting, then let his team free their mind and enjoy a night of bowling and camraderie, which can go a long way.

 Alstork and his staff is still determined to keep his squad prepared for a run that will get them to the Regional Tournament in Detroit in March.

"This year has been a different experience for me. I have learned a lot about myself, and how to coach from a different perspective." Coach Alstork stated.

The experience is paying off, because, despite the troubles, the Eagles remain in contention for a spot in the Regional tournament. 

While it won't be easy, the Eagles have about 13 games left and got off to a good start in the 2nd half of the season. They're 7-9 right now and 2-4 in conference play. 

Nevertheless, the Eagles grabbed a key win at home, knocking off Terra State 84-79 in a tight game.

 David Mensah (23pts, 3 reb, 4 stls) & Isaiah Masteller (22pts, 6 rebounds)  led the Eagles while subs Ramiro Martin (15 pts, 5-5 shooting) and Ziyan Ali provided a huge boost off the bench.

"I love the way our team responded after our last game." Alstork stated. 

"I love these guys."

Tonight the boys will face off against the Top team in the OCCAC In Hocking College. They sit at 7-1 on the season in the conference. 

When i asked Alstork about how he feels about the team?

 "They're ready to go tonight." 

The girls games tips off at 5, followed by the boys game (estimated 7pm tip). 

Look for a gritty performance from the Eagles tonight. Will it be smooth sailing? That remains to be seen. But at the very least, coach Alstork knows he's got a few good men. 

Expect a nice crowd and great intensity for the game tonight.

You can go to the Clark State Athletics page on Facebook to watch it if you can't make it in person.