Men’s Basketball Playing Strong

Not much has been said this term about the Rockland Community College Men’s basketball team, until now. In the 2008-2009 season, the Rockland Hawks set a new school record when they made it to Nationals for the first time.

Head coach William Kurisko, and assistant coaches John Yannaco, and Lenny Kurisko, watched as their team made a dramatic comeback at the Region XV, Division III tournament in March of 2009.

They came back from a 22-point deficit with under ten minutes left in the game advancing to the Division III National Tournament in Delhi, New York. Angel Gonzalaz was named Tournament MVP and Matt Rose was selected to the All Tournament Team.

The Hawks went 22-12, setting a school record last season, and are off to an amazing start this season as they are already 8-3, and ranked number 4 in the National Junior College Association.

Captains Jermain Wallace and Edwin Perez, have been practicing harder than ever to make it back to Nationals this year along with the rest of the team. They are up as early as 5:30 a.m. for morning practices before class, and also go strong on afternoons and weekends to prepare for their games.

“We’re here,” says John Oakes, one of the many talented point guards for RCC.

The enthusiasm is easily detectable in his voice.  It’s easily understandable for him to be enthusiastic considering he was awarded Region XV Player of The Week early this November.

Many people don’t realize the hard work and dedication it takes to commit to a college sports team. There are many factors, such as keeping your GPA up and not only making the practices but also continuing to impress the coaches during practice.

John Oakes was named Tournament MVP in the Hawks’ recent weekend tournament in Hudson Valley. Their opponents were Springfield and Columbia Greene.

The Hawks returned home Sunday night, kicking off their season with a record of 2-0, coming out with a win in both games. The Rockland Hawks would love your support at their next game, which will be held on Tuesday, November 24 at 7:00 p.m. in the RCC Field House against Westchester.

For a complete schedule, roster, and photos of the 2009-2010 season please visit www.sunyrockland.edu/prospective-students/athletics

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