Players are most commonly recognized for the amount of points they score while on offense, but within the varsity boys’ basketball team players are also commended for their defensive work.

Continuing the tradition from the ’80s, coach Josh Justin establishes “The Chair” among the team. “The Chair” serves as defensive reward for the overall season.

Students’ ultimate goal is to earn the most check marks by the season end. In order to gain a checkmark, the athlete must be the statistically highest defensive player for a single game.

“They get points for rebounds, charges, steals and any sort of defensive statistic,” Justin said. “Its a competition, so it fosters a pretty competitive environment for defensive categories.”

Each player signs their name on “The Chair” and updates their checkmarks after each game. The winner receives “The Chair” to take home and keep as a reminder of their successful defensive season.

Justin experienced the challenge of “The Chair” when he played for the FC team, and continued the tradition as a coach.

“I think it started back with (former coach, Scott) Callisch,” Justin said. “Then Chris Schultz kept it going. When I played it (“The Chair”) was around and I brought it back because it was great for the team.”

As the team heads into the CIF Central Section Division V Championships and possibly into state playoffs, defense becomes just as important as offense. The Eagles must now defend their title by claiming a victory.

The Eagles will next play at Selland Arena against the Laten Mustangs beginning at 4 p.m., March 2. Tickets are available in the high school office. Adults will be charged $12 and students $9 for admission.

For more information, read the Feb. 29 article Boys’ basketball sport shorts: Eagles punch ticket to Selland (VIDEO).

For more photos, check out ANNOUNCEMENT: Auction and Selland support.