By Wayne E. Rivet
Staff Writer

Alex Hartford knew his time had arrived, but he took nothing for granted.

A junior, the 6-foot-3 forward turned in hard work during the off-season in hopes of cracking Lake Region’s starting five.

“Alex was one of our most dedicated and hardest working players in the off-season. He played AAU basketball, attended summer work-outs, played on our summer league team, and also played on a fall league team,” Lake Region varsity boys’ basketball Coach J.P. Yorkey said.

After swinging between junior varsity and varsity as a sophomore, Alex is now a full-time varsity player and has started in all of the Lakers’ pre-season games.

“He is one of the most improved players that I have seen, in terms of his progress from middle school to now,” Coach Yorkey said. “Alex averaged 12.3 points per game, rebounded the ball very well, and showed great improvement on defense in our three scrimmages against Bonny Eagle, Boothbay Region and Kennebunk. He scored a team-high 19 points against Kennebunk.”

Coach Yorkey is looking forward to watching Alex continue to progress.

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Alex is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber, and a $25 gift certificate to Salon at 616 in Casco.

The Hartford File

Name: Alex Hartford

Year in School: Junior

Town: Naples

Parents: Toby and Lenay Hartford

School Activities/Sports: Basketball

Q. Why did you choose this sport? I’ve always loved basketball ever since my first tryout.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? Win the gold ball.

Q. What do you enjoy the most? Competition.

Q. What do you like the least? Losing.

Q. What makes you successful? Working hard on and off the court.

Q. What would your dream moment be? Hitting a game winning shot to win the championship.

Q. What has the sport taught you? How what you do and say can affect how other people see you.

Q. Who has inspired you? My dad. He always pushes me to get better. He is a very good influence.