PHOTO BY john larson
BRETT TSOTSI, LEFT, RECEIVES THE COACH’S AWARD FOR THE FIFTH/SIXTH-GRADE BOYS TEAM FROM ARCHIE CANTRELL.
Boys basketball teams were recognized for their efforts this season during an awards presentation at Puyallup Tribal Youth Center on May 27.
First up was the fifth/sixth-grade team. Assistant coach Ernest Carillo discussed how the players progressed during the season and took this experience into post-season tournaments. “We all pulled together and had a good time,” he said.
Head coach Archie Cantrell handed out trophies. The offensive player of the year was Isaiah Carillo. “He really carried the load for us,” Archie Cantrell said.
Alex Padron took the award for defensive player of the year. “He played his heart out,” Archie Cantrell said.
The coach’s award went to Brett Tsotsi, who Archie Cantrell said was equally adept at offense and defense. “He let people know where they were supposed to be. He was like a coach on the floor.”
Phillip Dillon was head coach of the seventh-grade boys team, while Anthony Augkhopinee was assistant coach. Phillip Dillon, who recently became director of the youth center, thanked his assistant for everything he did.
“Anything I needed, he was glad to help with,” Phillip Dillon observed.
Shawn Green was named best offensive player. “Anytime I needed something done he said ‘coach, I got it,’” Phillip Dillon said.
Snoopy Satiacum was named best defensive player. “Anytime we needed to get the ball back, he was the guy to do it,” Phillip Dillon remarked.
Solo Augkhopinee won the coach’s award. “He improved by 100 percent,” Phillip Dillon said. “He got some confidence and really stepped up on defense.”
Julian Dillon earned the most valuable player trophy.
Philip Dillon and Anthony Augkhopinee then presented trophies to the eighth-grade team.
Leo George was honored as best defensive player.
Gus Taraya was selected best offensive player. “He was not afraid to shoot,” Phillip Dillon said. “Every time he was open he would shoot.”
D.J. Ingram won the coach’s trophy. “When he is in the game, he is always a threat on offense,” Phillip Dillon remarked.
Steven Harris earned the most valuable player trophy.
