FCHS Pilots return talent, experience

The Fulton County Pilots basketball team will hit the hardwood this season with a plethera of talent, speed, size and experience.

Returning to the floor following an 18-12 season just one year ago, the Pilots will also seek to repeat as the First District champions.

Coach Jamie Madding’s team comprised the sixth best record in the First Region last year, and practice has indicated a repeat at best for this season.

“Things have gone well so far,” said Madding from a break at the gym. “The guys have really been working hard at practice. I feel like this year our practices have been more focused, and we have developed some good leadership among the players. We are still really fresh, with some of the guys just getting in some gym time due to their football season. I think it will be true to say we are starving for practices, but with the athleticism of this bunch, I think we will get caught up pretty fast.”

High expectations are in order for the Pilots, who could be one of the most well rounded teams in the region.

“We have a cabinet full of athletes on this team. We have good guard play and we have size inside. Camden Aldridge came in at just over 6’7” from his physical and George Scott has grown some over last season and he is now at 6’4”. Both of those guys are playing above the rim in practice, and we have just got a good mix of in and out play that will be important throughout the season. We have a lot of talent, and a lot of returning talent, which makes a big difference.”

With the balanced depth of players suited up for the upcoming schedule. Coach Madding said a new style of Pilots basketball will be showcased for local fans.

“We are returning every player off of last years district championship team, with the exception of two. We have plenty of talent to make that up, and we are going to play a different style of basketball that includes constant pressure. We are going to press and come after people. I plan on playing about 10 players to keep fresh, and will use the full court game to our advantage. I am a defensive coach, and we are going to use it to our advantage this season. We are built to play that way. I believe this style will give us a real advantage most every night we hit the floor.”

After posting a (6-0) record in district play last year, that included the return of the championship trophy to Fulton County, coach Madding said he anticipates being the team with the bullseye on their back.

“Year in and year out, our district is really balanced. We respect everybody we play and we know it will be tough. Over at Carlisle County, coach Brian O’Neil is one of the top coaches in the region, and he will get the most of the players he has suited up. They play fast and shoot well. Hickman County always gives us their best game, and we expect nothing different this season. And I feel sure Fulton City will take a step in the right direction under coach Dillard, who always has his guys playing well. I will say this district is up for grabs, but our goal is to take home another championship.”

Fulton County will begin their season on the road Nov. 29, when they travel across the state line to face South Fulton.