By Coach Rob Mathison

In what may be their second biggest obstacle of the year, the 13-year-old boys Loyal Heights Basketball team has selected their official team nickname for the 2012 season. After ample discussion, the team opted for The Seattle Swagger. Why the bravado-filled name?

“We’re a smaller team and want to show that regardless of size we’ll win,” said guard Michael Johnson.

The Swagger’s biggest challenge? Keeping their legs fresh. With a roster of just six boys, each of the players will see a lot of playing time in what are usually fast-paced games. Tired legs aside, The Swagger has a healthy mix of veterans and rookies with a wide-range of goals that should make for a flavorful season.

“I want to become a better player, win a few games and have fun,” said Robert Mathison, playing his first season for the Loyal Heights team.

“I just want to win,” added Josh Brown, also new to the team.

In their first practice this past week, the team showed promise, making good passes and showing some impressive pre-season shooting. The team was shooting almost 60 percent from close range and nearly 25 percent as a team from beyond the three-point arc, including an impressive 50 percent three-point shooting percentage by sharpshooting Timothy Malone.

In addition to Johnson, Mathison, Malone and Brown, The Swagger’s roster includes Remy Martin and Antonio Diaz-Mitchell.

The team is also looking for additional players and fan support. If you are interested in playing or rooting for The Swagger, games are Saturdays citywide and start in January, with playoffs in March. You can learn more about the team at LHBB13.com. You can also follow the games every week start