Hoover, Buhrman to lead young team

The Washington County Tigers had a successful year last year, finishing in a three-way tie for the lead in the Twin Valley League. Two first team all-league picks return as seniors this year – Kobe Hoover and Drew Buhrman. They helped WCHS to a 17-6 overall record last year. That squad made it to the regional finals last year, where they ended up losing to Frankfort, before falling to Centralia in the first round of substate.

Coach Bobby Smith is beginning his fifth year at WCHS. He loses three seniors from last year’s squad, including Garret Otott, Tyler Simmons and second team all-TVL player Tyler Nelson.

But he also retains a lot of offensive production with Hoover and Burhman in the guard position.

“I’m expecting a pretty big year between those two,” said Smith. “I also know teams will be keying on them. They will have to step up and be leaders, before just being scorers, and find other people to contribute. We’re pretty young.”

He said seniors Jack Gilliam and Trever Grace also saw some starting time last year. He said Gilliam is a good scorer and Grace will outwork anyone around him.

Grace will be joined down low by Nathaniel Tice and Coy Stamm, both of whom have good size. Tice was out all year with an injury.

“We have three pretty good posts,” said Smith.

He said his expectations for the team don’t change much no matter the circustances.

“I want to win and see individuals get better,” said Smith. “That doesn’t change as a coach.”

He said the COVID situation will potentially cause a lot of challenges, so he wants the kids to keep an open mind with the season.

“There will be lots of ups and downs, just with COVID,” said Smith. He said things will come up and he is trying to mold his players’ minds to accept this is just part of life.

“I want them to develop themselves as individuals and teammates,” said Smith. “Work together and play every game as we get it.”