For the Tribune

This winter sports season brought some changes to the Albert Lea boys’ basketball program.

Thursday, January 10, 2002

This winter sports season brought some changes to the Albert Lea boys’ basketball program.

From getting a new head coach in Matt Addington to the arrival of new players up the varsity, there’s definitely a new look and a new attitude for the 2001-02 Tigers.

Among the players who joined the varsity level this year is junior Tyler Young.

Ready to step up to the call, Young admits the varsity level has harder competition, yet he feels he’s up to the challenge.

&uot;(Varsity) is a little bit harder, but I can handle it,&uot; said Young who added how he likes the higher tempo pace of the games.

Young isn’t only involved in basketball. He’s also a varsity wide receiver in football and a sprinter in track. Getting involved in all the sports is something he credits to others. He stayed involved even though he was not a standout, something that appears to be changing at the varsity level as Young is developing into one of the top all-around athletes in the Big Nine.

&uot;All my friends played in those sports, so I thought, I’d give it a shot,&uot; said Young.

That’s exactly what he did, and he’s making a mark in the process as a starter in all three sports in which he participates.

Basketball seems to be where Young shines best though. Usually he’s in the top three scorers in any game.

Coach Addington believes in Young’ s skill and ability.

&uot;His ability is an asset; hard work will make him a good player,&uot; said Addington.

Young’ s ability may also be able to send him to the next level, enabling him to play collegiately.

&uot;If he continues to work hard and sets goals to play at the next level, he could definitely do it,&uot; said Addington.

Even though Young tends to be a great player on the court, he gives credit to his coaches, insisting he wouldn’t be where he is without them.