Clarkston took a huge step forward with a 15-4-2 season that included being ranked in the state coaches poll in 2006. A trip to the district finals ensued and the Wolves dropped a heart breaker to Rochester Adams in penalty kicks to close the season.
‘In order to have a successful program, you have to have a turning point. That was last year,? second-year coach Adam Bican said.
‘They know it’s going to take hard work and discipline to keep up that level and increase. It helps having the mindset they can compete with Rochester Adams. A great deal of what we did last year was getting over the hump.?
The best news for the Wolves as they and Bican try to avoid a sophomore jinx is a roster chock-full of key returners. Aside from one of the state’s best talents, forward Oliver Kupe, the Wolves retain forward Kevin Pinkos, goalkeeper Scott Messer (who split time with Jason Dutcher last year) and defender Colin Rumshclag.
As part of team with 14 returners, eight of which were starters last year, Rumschlag and the defense only lost one player from last season, Oakland University-bound Jake Przybycien. Along with Isaac Platte, Bican is excited about bringing up freshman utility player, Jarrett Kersten.
‘He’ll feel his way around the field and get comfortable with our division,? Bican said. ‘He’s got great vision and he’s a great player.
‘He proved he’s worthy of a lot of playing time. I have a lot of confidence in him.?
Kupe, an all-league, all-county, all-district, all-region and second team all-state selection in 2006 is expected to draw a lot of attention from defenders. The 26-goal scorer a year ago should be be raking up assists by being alert on offense.
‘This year, like last, Oli is coming into his own. He’s our biggest threat on offense and other teams know that,? Bican said. ‘He knows when there are three guys on him, someone else is open.
‘It may take the pressure off others, but they have to step up.?
Despite the many personal accomplishments Kupe has and likely will earn again, a state championship would be a perfect capstone to a high school career. ‘He would give up any personal accolade for a state championship for the team,? Bican said.