By: Taylor VanHuis
Team captains can make all the difference. A group’s performance on the court is reliant on advice from captains and coaches as well. James Hoffman is not just defined as a team captain, but a strong, steady-minded leader. He knows how to set his team up for success even when a losing streak seems to consume them.
James has been playing basketball since he was seven; he has a feel for the game and knows his team well. James offered his advice for the team as well as personal attributes and his dedication to the game.
James gave insightful responses that reflected his respectful attitude towards his sport.
“As a team, we’ve grown more together and become closer not only as teammates but as friends. I believe that will help us moving forward.”
The Hamilton boys’ basketball team has had unfortunate past experiences playing rival teams. Holland Christian has had a chokehold on them for what feels like a century, but James knows how to stay calm before a tough game.
“I’d say to not make the game seem as big as it is. To stay composed and play it like it’s any other game.”
The varsity team has improved immensely throughout this season, and they have clearly been using that technique to secure more wins. They have stayed confident and level-headed on the court over the past few months.
It is important to stay open-minded after a loss, and even though it’s not always easy, James says,
“By the end of the year, we just want to play our best basketball, so as long as we are taking steps forward each game, that is the biggest thing for us.”
Hoffman has great knowledge of the game because of his years of expirience, so his advice for the team is not taken lightly. Of course, some things are kept private between just him and one teammate, though. When asked about personal vs team advice, this is what he shared:
“I’d say the improvement thing- I try and talk to people individually,” when speaking about him and one member, and “as a group, I’d say it’s like offense or defense skills, I will talk to the whole team about that.”
“Again, individually, I definitely try to keep improvement on certain skills personal.”
This shines a light on James’ respect for his team, but also his dedication to getting better. It takes an army to accomplish big goals like winning districts, but it only takes one person to push a team to get there.
I asked Hoffman if he felt obligated to be his best self all of the time with a “captain” title and how that affects him in the game.
“I do try to be my best self,” he states, “ but sometimes my emotions get the best of me.”
It is important to realize that in sports like basketball, nobody can stay collected all the time. Emotions are a big part of how the game is played and won.
“I mean, usually during the game, I feel a lot of emotion, so I try to keep those to a minimum, but I also always try and stay positive for my teammates.”
James also shared with me how important Coach Kronemeyer’s advice is. He can give his best advice every game, but at the end of the day, the coach knows what’s best for the team.
James Hoffman’s four-year varsity experience has proven his dedication and loving commitment to Hamilton Basketball. His advice as a team captain is used to improve the team’s performance, yet also highlight their accomplishments this year. Hoffman will continue to help improve his team while embracing his “captain” title for the rest of his senior year.