Alden High School is excited to welcome two new coaches to the girls’ basketball program this season: Mr. Baumann, who will be leading the varsity team, and Mr. Jones, who will be coaching the girls’ modified team. Both coaches bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for the game, with unique coaching philosophies aimed at helping the players develop both as athletes and as individuals.

Mr. Baumann’s journey into coaching began early, inspired by the coaches who shaped his own childhood. He has been involved in coaching on and off since the age of 17, and now, he’s excited to pass on his teaching skills to the varsity girls’ basketball team. His approach focuses on challenging the athletes in practice to push them beyond their comfort zones, believing that growth comes from discomfort. He aims to help his players get comfortable with the uncomfortable by pushing their limits, which will ultimately prepare them for high-pressure situations both on the court and in life.

Mr. Jones, who will be coaching the 7th and 8th-grade modified team, brings over a decade of coaching experience to Alden. Having played college basketball in the 90s and early 2000s, he’s deeply passionate about the game and loves teaching others the skills he’s learned. For him, coaching is about helping players reach their full potential while fostering a love for the game. He emphasizes making practices enjoyable and keeping a lighthearted atmosphere so that players not only improve but also have fun while learning. While he aims for success, he believes that seeing players develop and enjoy the game is the most important part of coaching.

Together, Mr. Baumann and Mr. Jones are dedicated to helping their players grow, both as basketball players and as individuals. Their shared commitment to challenging, teaching, and inspiring will no doubt have a lasting impact on the Alden girls’ basketball program this season.