Winter: The Uggs come out, Christmas cheer is everywhere and the Starbucks obsession returns. Not only does this time of year bring a chill in the air it also marks the beginning of both boys and girls basketball seasons.

Varsity boys basketball is coming off a successful 2012-2013 season with a record of 20-11. Last year they made it to round one of the state playoffs. This season, the team is focused on getting back to sections and maintaining their legacy of excellence. Girls basketball ended last year with a record of 20-9. Dominated by underclassmen, the varsity team is looking to prosper in the next few seasons. Cole Bridge, Lauren Clark and Nate Versoza talk about the upcoming seasons for their teams.

Bridge and Versoza are seniors that have made the transition into bigger leadership roles this year and look to repeat last years success.

“I wouldn’t say that last years success has put pressure on us. Its more of a motivation for us. We set high expectations for ourselves this season. We all want to get back to Arco and go further than we did last year,“ said Versoza.

“Last year I had a smaller role. This season I have a bigger role on the floor I need to score points and play good defense. As a captain I need to keep the team together and keep focused on our one main goal which is winning,” said Bridge.

With goals to win SFL, both the girls and boys teams’ biggest rival is Del Oro.

“Del Oro puts up a good game. They will be our biggest competitor in our goal to win league,” Said Clark.

“They have good boys and girls teams. And rowdy fans,” said Versoza.

Speaking of rowdy fans, the Blue Crew played a big role at home games last season. The energy and support from rowdy fans help pump the teams up which usually results in a win.

“The team loves when the Blue Crew comes out and there’s a big crowd. It’s a really fun environment and makes playing basketball a lot more fun.When a big play happens and the crowd goes crazy there’s an awesome atmosphere in the gym,” said Bridge.

Both teams non-league seasons have begun.The girls team is coming off a tough loss to Christian brothers making their record 2-2. The boys are 2-1 and play at Buhach Colony on Tuesday.