X

The Avon Pirates boys basketball team enters the 2025-26 season with a blend of experienced returners, rising young talent, and the momentum of a group fresh off a State Football Championship Runner-Up run. Under first-year head coach Dan Fathke, the Pirates are focused on daily growth, strong fundamentals, and a defensive identity built around athleticism and hustle. Coach Fathke said the team looks forward to “a fun season,” noting that several athletes saw significant varsity minutes last year while a wave of young players continues to develop. The goal, both short and long term, is simple: improve every single day, have fun, and play with intensity. Fathke believes that daily skill development will naturally translate into long-term success. Avon plans to lean on its athleticism to create pressure on defense, force turnovers, and run the floor in transition. With size down low, the Pirates will also look to control the paint, rebound aggressively, and turn defense into easy scoring opportunities. “Rebounding will be key,” Fathke emphasized. “We want to get stops, get out and go, and let our athleticism take over.” A strong summer turnout at open gyms helped boost confidence and refine fundamentals. Players focused on the essentials—dribbling, passing, and shooting—all critical to developing dependable varsity contributors. Fathke said the group’s skillset continues to grow because of their offseason commitment. The Pirates return a strong core led by senior Al’Shamon “Big Al” Gunter, who Fathke expects to be a “double-double guy” and a force in the paint. A talented junior class: Dominic Doom, Grayson Ratzlaff, Braylon Fathke, Cale Cooper, and Mason Jolley should make an impact, along with sophomore Easton Sees, while freshman Zander Fathke, who logged significant minutes as an eighth grader, steps in to run the point and help getting us going in transition. Behind them is a large freshman group: Charlie Cooper, Sean Schryvers, Beau Tolsma, Brenson Ratzlaff, Jayden Petrik, and Austin DeVries that continues to show steady improvement. Fathke shared he enjoys seeing the growth each and everky day, not only on the court, but improving as people and being good “dudes”. “I look for huge growth in some of our younger kids,” Fathke said. “They put in a lot of time in the offseason.” Many of these athletes competed together during the football postseason, and Fathke says that camaraderie has carried over into the gym. The team emphasizes two controllable traits every day: Attitude and Effort. These lessons, he says, reach far beyond wins and losses. “How you learn to handle the little ups and downs prepares you for much larger ones later in life.” The Pirates are concentrating on sharpening fundamentals and building confidence early. Fathke wants players to “not be afraid to be good” as they set the tone for the season. With a schedule that includes several tough regional opponents, growth and resilience will be essential. Fathke stressed the importance of fan involvement, encouraging Avon supporters to fill the gym this winter. “The kids love playing in front of a full, loud crowd. I know LiveTicket is easy, but if you can, come to the games. The kids feed off that energy!” As the season unfolds, Fathke is most excited to watch his players develop—not only into better athletes, but into “good dudes.” With work ethic, teamwork, and enthusiasm fueling this year’s squad, the Pirates are eager to start strong and build momentum all winter long. “We look forward to seeing you all in the gym supporting our girls and boys basketball teams. Hooks Up!”