Fulton Co. Pilots focus on speed, experience

The Fulton County Pilots are preparing for the 2019-20 basketball season, which could have a silver lining in the end.

The Pilots return to the hardwood after posting a 15-14 record last year, with a new mix of players and strategies.

With the loss of four seniors, coach Jamie Madding will be filling positions and molding a group to contend in both the First District and Region.

“I really like my team,” said the coach during an afternoon practice. “We are very guard heavy, with no shortage at that position. We got a late start to practices due to the football playoffs, but so far I am liking what I have seen. We have a group of physical players and we are definitely not lacking in the speed category.”

What the Pilots are looking to fill this year in the paint, is the loss of 6’7” center Camden Aldrige and 6’4” forward George Scott.

“He (Aldridge) was just a presence,” said Coach Madding. “Cam was just huge for us. He and George were able to clean the boards and cause problems for players on the inside. This year, we really have high hopes for Dylan Hammond to step in and fill the role. He is not as tall as Camden, but he really plays physical and I think he will have a huge year for us”

With the anticipation of new players in the starting line-up, coach Madding will be stocked with a stable of athletic talent.

“We are going to be athletic from top to bottom. We have what we need to play our style, which is getting up and down the floor, and being physical under the basket. Dylan (Hammond) and Broc Bridges will be big inside. I think this is two big guys that can’t be pushed around. We will have Caleb Kimble and Lake County transfer Colton Henderson playing their senior year, along with Armani Yandal, who you can really count on when needed. Jerome Warren is another senior who has great passing skills, and the ability to play about four positions. Hayden Murphy is going to give is a strong outside shooting game, which we will need to be well rounded. You know, we will have about half of the guys on the varsity team being new to us, but most have been a part of the program in the past. So, you will see some new faces, but guys that know what we are all about and what is important to our success.”

Madding said the strength of the experience and talent will allow him to look down the bench for seven or eight players, but with no hesitation to go as deep as ten.

With this luxury, the Pilots may be well suited to put many games in the win column, when play begins Dec. 3.

“We are not going to start with a cupcake for sure, as Halls will play in Hickman on our first game,” said Madding. “As far as the First District this year, I think one through four will not be far apart. It’s going to be a lot closer, and I expect a lot of parity among Carlisle County, Hickman County, Fulton City and us during the year. I can tell you know that each night, every team will have to bring their A-game. All of the teams are well coached, have really good players, and are going to give you everything they have.”