Although there are 16 talented boys on the South Boys’ Varsity Basketball team, there is only one team manager. The consistent and passionate manager, senior Braeden Zielinski, supports and works alongside the players to constantly push the teams’ potential. Zielinski just completed his fourth and final year as team manager. He fulfills many tasks, such as two-on-three drills with the team and attending all games and practices, Zielinski said.

Phil Ralston, Boys’ Varsity Basketball Head Coach, asked Zielinski to be a manager his freshman year. Zielinski was recognized Feb. 11 during Senior Night where he was in uniform and played with some of his closest friends, Ralston said. He got to start at the beginning of the game and played in the fourth quarter, where he scored five points, Zielinski said.

“There is probably no one more dedicated than him,” Ralston said. “It [is] a great feel-good story to see someone who is so passionate about something and how much they [are] willing to commit to it. Zielinski’s love for basketball has shown through his commitment to the team and the game, Ralston said.

Ralston sees Zielinski’s love for basketball in many ways, including his habit of discussing the plays of college level teams with the coaches and players, and his unwavering care for them.

“[Zielinski] loves being around the [team and] loves being at practice, “ Ralston said. “The only times that he has missed practice is when he [has] been sick, so you know how important it is to him.”

Zielinski’s favorite professional basketball player is Stephan Curry from The Golden State Warriors. His love of basketball originated from his mom, but continued to grow ever since he started playing at age two, Zielinski said.

Ralston said that the team responds well to Zielinski’s positive demeanor and has created close bonds with him. Zielinski enjoys his positive relationship with the team, feeling like he can support them and receive the same back.

“After losses [I tell the team] we can bounce back, [but] after wins we get happy, so I [am] pretty happy with the [team],” Zielinski said.

Junior Jack Guerin said Zielinski is funny and easy to talk to due to the light-hearted spirit he brings to the team. At practice, he runs the clock and supplies the team with balls for various drills, Guerin said.

“The saddest moment was seeing him get emotional after the last game of the season where he came up to me and thanked me for being his teammate and friend,” Guerin said.

Zielinski especially enjoyed the experience of the Wood Regional last season as it was a sold out game. He hopes that the future manager will be able to fulfill the same role that he did.

“Meet the coaches, meet new friends, work harder, play harder, [and] stay committed,” Zielinski said.