The Goochland Bulldogs enter the 2008-09-basketball season with a healthy dose of uncertainty. Even with the advantage of four returning starters, the team is facing some stiff challenges in the James River District as they begin their farewell tour of the conference.

  Veteran coach Oliver Courtney said he has reasonable expectations for this year’s squad, but is not sure where they fit in the JRD mix.

  “We have a team that could finish anywhere from first to third,” he said. “The team has talent, but they face a tough schedule with some tough teams in the district.”

  The team will anchor its efforts around returning starter Mark Sampson, an all-district first team player from last season. Sampson will highlight a running offense that will feature a quick strike attack.

  “We have to run to win,” Courtney said. “We’re not as big as a lot of the other teams, so we have to run.”

  Darius Athey, James Tinsley, Nick Morris and M.J. Cox also return as probable starters for this year’s campaign. “Hopefully, with the experience we’ll be able to press the offense and take some time off the clock,” Courtney said.

  With Cox in the quarterback position, Courtney feels confident the team will stay focused and aggressive. “He’s not flashy, but we can count on MJ, “ Courtney said. “He’s a steady force for us out there and we’re glad to have him back.”

  Cox, Tinsley, Willie Ezell and several other players got a late start at basketball practice because they were playing with the football team.

  Additions to this year’s squad, which is still in the initial phases of practice, include Brandon Henry. Up from junior varsity, Courtney said Henry would get a fair amount of playing time, and hopes his shooting prowess will aid the Bulldogs offense.

  “He’s going to really help us out this year, “Courtney said.

  Perennial foes Buckingham and Cumberland return experienced squads this year, so Courtney is cautiously optimistic about the upcoming campaign. “If we play as a team, we’ll be able to compete with anyone in the district,” he said.

  Missing from the lineup is last year’s offensive phenom, Matt Ezell. “He was our scorer and it’s always tough to replace that kind of offensive spark,” Courtney said.

  As Goochland enters its final season in the James River District, Courtney is also hoping for a consistent performance from his team, both on and off the court. “I want these guys to do well, on the court and in the classroom,” he said. “If we stay focused on that mission, we’ll be ok.”