The 2014-15 Chapin Boys Varsity Basketball squad officially opened their season with a 33-32 victory over the River Bluff Gators on Tuesday. Although the competition between Chapin and River Bluff has grown since the two started playing, it still pales in comparison to the intense rivalry between the Eagles and the Mid Carolina Rebels. Chapin looks to build off their first win of the season with a win over their arch rival Rebels in their home opener.

The Eagles are confident entering a new era with head coach John Goodale. Players and coaches like the direction he plans on taking the program, and the competitiveness that he brings and teaches the players.

“He brings a style of play that fits the players and brings a family atmosphere and teaches us just to be positive. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon,”  said junior guard Mario Macaluso.

Many players feel like they could be very a competitive team this year even though Chapin has one of the toughest schedules in the state. The Eagles have match-ups against the defending 2A state champs in Newberry and the defending 3A state champions A.C. Flora.

“(Coach Goodale) brings a style of play that fits the players’ family atmosphere and believes that there is a way we can play with any team” stated Coach Paul Patrich, assistant head coach for the Eagles.

Chapin will look to their senior leaders to guide them through this season. For senior McCade Cooper, the focus is clear. When asked what the goals of the team were in the near future, Cooper responded, “To win the Christmas tournament and get a good turn-out for the student section.”

Chapin basketball is on the rise. All eyes are on a new coach, a new team, a new season, a new era in Chapin Basketball, and what better way to open the era than in the new arena against our old rival.