LYNN — They say you move better when it’s warm outside.
As the spring sports season approaches in Lynn Tech-land, Athletic Director Adolph Graciale says you just want to be active.
“The spring is really nice with the great weather,” Graciale said. “You just want to do something.”
And those Tigers are certainly doing things. Monday marked the first day of spring tryouts, which Graciale said are going great.
“Everyone’s out there practicing [and] everyone’s excited,” Graciale said. “You can see it, we’ve got a large number of kids coming to try out.”
Indeed. He said outdoor track, softball, and newly-introduced volleyball are up numbers-wise, adding spring programs are “really coming up strong.”
Speaking of things that came up strong, it was a successful winter campaign for Tech. Graciale commented on an exciting city meet in swimming, a “fantastic” year for indoor track, and a wrestling program that’s being “built up.”
He also added his appreciation for the cheerleaders and what they meant for the atmosphere at basketball games.
“The excitement is just back – you can see from the crowds,” Graciale said. “The atmosphere has been fantastic.”
The boys basketball team finished 19-4 with Head Coach Corey Bingham helming the program.
“What Corey Bingham did with this team… he got Coach of the Year in the CAC (Commonwealth Athletic Conference) Small,” Graciale said. “And then with the voc[ational] tournament victory, it was unbelievable.”
“The foundation is just there,” Graciale said regarding the boys hoops team.
He also applauded the girls team for reaching the state tournament, and believes Tech basketball is in a great spot moving forward.
“The excitement is starting to come back,” Graciale said. “The winter season was quite eventful for the Tigers.”
But now, it’s springtime – and with that comes some new opponents. Well, not all new.
“I’m looking forward to playing Dicky Newton as well,” Graciale said of the Lynn English athletic director.
And for seniors, it’s their last season of high school sports. If there’s one thing Graciale, or any athletic director, has in his or her job description, it’s enhancing the student-athlete experience.
“I say to the kids – you’re always going to remember your high school days… even when you’re old,” Graciale said. “I really hope they enjoy their last season.”
WHAT ELSE WAS SAID
“Enjoy your experience now, and then come to visit,”
“It’s not just about the wins and losses, but it’s the development I love to see… more and more kids are coming out for the sports,”
“It’s fun to be an athletic director at Lynn Tech… I enjoy it very much.”
