There is no doubt that Thunder men’s basketball head coach Trevor Costello has the building blocks in
place for a successful upcoming season.

After an up-and-down 2009-2010 campaign that ended in disappointment, the team now knows what
It has to work on. Consistency is a big issue. Algonquin started out strong and finished the year with only
two losses in the final two months, but lagged in the middle of the season, hitting a road bump that cost
them in the standings.  

Forced into a playoff qualifier, the Thunder showed how strong they are, owning the game against
Niagara from beginning to end. However, it was all for not as Algonquin was ousted by Fanshawe during
their first playoff game; a game that was on the verge of being out of control.

The season in its entirety was a giant learning experience that can only help the team step forward
next season.

“We finished third in nationals last year and we learned from that,” said the Thunder’s playoff player of
the game Abdul Kosar. “Unfortunately we wanted the same thing this year but we will learn from it.”

Kosar, Algonquin’s dominant shooter, will be looked upon for leadership next year along with hopeful
returning players Didier Doirin and all-star Anthony Hinds.

“I’m a third year guy next year and hopefully [I will] lead some of the young guys and show them what it
takes to get to nationals,” Kosar said.

The leadership group will not be joined by veteran Jordan Rose heading into the 2010-2011
schedule.

“I think I’m going to take a year off,” Rose said. “I will come back the following year.”

If Rose, the predominant ball carrier and set up man, doesn’t return, Algonquin’s offense won’t be hung
out to dry. Njuguna Waiganio really came into his own this season and found himself leading the
charge during important minutes in the playoffs.

“Last year from Njuguna to this year has been amazing,” said Costello. “He’s been unbelievable … we are
going to need him for next year.”

Costello will also be looking for players heading into their second season with Algonquin to take the next
step. Rookies Garnet Blais, Matt Valiquette and all rookie team Sean Rodriguez were called upon often
this year, playing important minutes and working their way into starting positions.

These players will be expected to bring their game to a new level and along with the veteran leadership
group, the Thunder will be a force to be reckoned with in the fall.