Often in sports the focus is on athletes and sometimes coaches. But what about others who have helped the basketball Rocks get to three games from a second state championship? From season’s beginning to the end, the managers deal with behind-the-scenes duties.

Seniors Clay Harville and Davis Barkley, junior Gabe Unzueta and sophomore Andrew Hughes are managers for the Shamrocks.

“The things we do are getting the players ready, videotape the

games for the coaches to show the players their mistakes or strategies, clean floors, and help with practice drills,” Harville said.

Why does he do it?  Harville said, “The best thing about this experience is to be part of this team. I love traveling with the team on away games and getting them ready for each game. It also helps me with my career choice.”

“It’s amazing to be part of this team,” Barkley said. “I like being involved in Trinity, especially in the basketball program.”

Hughes agreed that the experience is rewarding.  He said,  “One of the good things about being manager is that you get to travel. It feels good to be part of this team. They treat you like a player.”

With the territory, however, is a lack of recognition by many outside the team.  Hughes said, “One bad thing is that we’re not as recognized as much. We’re more than just a water boy.”

What do the managers think about the Rocks’ chances for a state title?  “We have a great chance of winning this year,” Unzueta said. “The coaching staff has pushed them to a whole other level.”

Barkley said, “Raymond (Spalding) is one of our key players, but with Tre (Ivory) and Craig (Owens), they are the reason for our success in the last four years. They want to win.”

Barkley said he has enjoyed his time behind the scenes. He said, “Being a manager is really time consuming, but it always pays off. It’s a good use of time.”