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Keefer steps in as Commodores coach

By Dave Stofcheck for The 3 min read
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Zach Keefer plans on keeping things simple.

Keefer, who took over the boys basketball program in July, believes in a basic formula for success.

“We don’t want to be outworked or out-hustled,” Keefer said. “We want to do all the little things correctly and do our best to be fundamentally sound. We want to play great defense, possess the ball and limit turnovers.”

Keefer also serves as Frazier’s athletic director. He’s coaching the boys squad for the first time, but he has known most of his players for years.

Four seniors should see extensive playing time, including J.D. Celaschi, Justin Novak, Brandon Lovis and Bradley Poling.

Celaschi will be vital to the offense, according to Keefer.

“We’re hoping in many cases he will be the sparkplug that keeps us rolling,” Keefer said. “He’s a hard worker, and we’re looking for him to be a great leader and be a general on the floor. We’re expecting great things offensively and defensively.”

Celaschi and Lovis will see action at guard, Novak at forward, and Poling a bit of both.

Novak will be counted on inside, according to Keefer.

“He’s our big man,” Keefer said. “He’s been seeing significant playing time since he was a freshman. Rebounding … defensively … and we’re looking for him to score. He can shoot too. He’s really good in all facets of the game.”

Poling may be one of Frazier’s most versatile offensive players.

“He has a good mix of body styles,” Keefer said. “He can bang down low, or show finesse from the outside. He’s also a vocal leader for us.”

Lovis hopes to come back strong after breaking his collarbone midway through football season.

“Right now, we’re waiting for him to be cleared,” Keefer said. “He’s been getting as many mental reps and he can get so far in practice. We can’t wait to get him back. He has a lot of experience on both sides of the ball, and he should be able to help us out in many ways.”

Keefer is thrilled to have a handful of players who have seen significant playing time in past years.

“It’s easy to fall back on those kids knowing what they’ve done so far,” Keefer said. “It’s especially nice to have some senior leadership when you’re taking over a program.”

Frazier will compete in Section 2-A, along with Bentworth, California, Carmichaels, Chartiers-Houston, Fort Cherry and Jefferson-Morgan.

“I know it was a strongly contested section last season,” Keefer said. “We’re going to do our best to compete as well as we can, and we’re going to do our best to get better each game.”

Frazier begins its season Dec. 8 at the Derry Tip-Off Tournament.

The Commodores open section play a week later at Bentworth.

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