By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

Sam Smith could be an impact player on a Lake Region boys’ basketball team hoping to improve enough this year to make a playoff run.

A sophomore guard, Sam “loves the game of basketball and is committed to being a competitive varsity player,” said Lake Region varsity boys’ basketball coach J.P. Yorkey.

This past off-season, Sam played on a spring AAU team, fully participated in the Lakers’ summer basketball program, which included early summer practices, attended Gold Rush team camp with the Lakers, played in summer games, and was in attendance at morning individual workouts.

Sam also helped coach the Laker summer day camp for younger players.

Sam also played in the Maine Athletic Club’s Fall Basketball League (varsity division) on a team of players from our four towns.

As one can see, the rookie guard has put in the homework, and is now prepared for the big test — varsity basketball.

“Over the first two weeks of the preseason, Sam has listened well, hustled and has been a good teammate,” Coach Yorkey said. “He has steadily improved, and scored 15 points on five three-point field goals in our final preseason game Saturday night versus Mt. Ararat. He also looked good running the break in the Morse game last Saturday morning. He’s ready.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Sam is this week’s Lake Region 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.

The Smith File

Name: Sam Smith

Year in School: Sophomore

Town: Naples

Parents: Terry and Gary

School Activities/Sports: Basketball and baseball

Q. Why did you choose basketball? SS. I chose basketball because I’ve been playing since I was a kid. I love every part of basketball.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? SS. I hope to make a run to and into the playoffs.

Q. What do you enjoy the most? SS. My team and how we are all like brothers.

Q. What do you like the least? SS. When I have a bad game, I always want to play my best.

Q. What makes you successful? SS. I just go my hardest and go all out every day I am on the court and off.

Q. What would your dream moment be? SS. To hold the Gold Ball up high with my team and being able to be called, “State Champs.”

Q. What has basketball taught you? SS. Commitment, teamwork, loyalty and how to be competitive in a professional manner.

Q. Who has inspired you? SS. My dad. He was the one who introduced me to basketball and constantly, every day, talks and teaches me things about the game to keep me going. He always has my back.