WINTHROP — The Winthrop boys basketball team may have a new coach at the helm to start the 2020-2021 season, but he’s not an unfamiliar face. After working as a varsity assistant with the Vikings for the past three years, Mike Triant takes over as a familiar face to a team that is trying to build itself back up after a down season in 2019-2020.
“I think it’s a massive help that I’ve been here in the program and I know the kids, but more importantly that they know me,” said Triant. “Trust is key when you’re building a bond with the team, and I think these guys trust that I care about them not only as players but also as human beings.
“We took a lot of positive steps over the past couple of years with (former coach) Dave Sacco, and I’m generally of the mind that if it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” Triant added. “We still have some lessons to be learned, but we feel that we’re in a good position to grow this year.”
The Vikings have a number of key players returning to the court this year, led by senior captain and three-year starter Cam Conway.
“Cam is going to be a big piece for us on the floor and off it,” Triant said. “He’s a great leader and he can contribute in all facets of the game. This is going to be a big year for him.”
Also returning is junior guard Chris Cappuccio, who started as a sophomore and was voted in as a captain by his teammates. Junior Luca Zanelli, junior Mikey Chaves and sophomore Zach Bogusz are also back for Winthrop this season.
“Chris went through a trial by fire last year as a sophomore and he grew a lot from it, so we’re expecting great things from him,” said Triant. “Luca might be the most improved player year-over-year that I’ve ever worked with. He’s incredibly dedicated and ready to break out. Mikey has a great opportunity to come into his own this year. Zach was a JV player for most of last year, then he got called up for the final three games and averaged nearly 15 points per game. We’ve got a great group of guys this year.”
Winthrop was allowed to start its winter preseason on Dec. 14, and the Vikings have gotten in three solid weeks of practice since then. Triant praised the effort and enthusiasm of the group.
“This preseason has been amazing,” said Triant. “We all showed up on Dec. 14 and just got after it. The effort and focus have been there every single day, all the guys are open to learning and they all give their input as well. It’s been a great environment for everyone.”
And all that work leads up to Friday evening (6:30), when Winthrop is set to open its season with a road game against a tough Gloucester team.
“We’re all very excited to be able to get back out there and compete against another team,” said Triant. “Gloucester will be a challenge because they’re always good and they’re a tough team, but it will be a great barometer for us to see where we stand. The key for us now is to harness the nerves and excitement and just go out there and play.”
