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Will Dallastown make moves in YAIAA Division I?


A step forward could be in store this season for the Dallastown boys’ basketball team. 

The program returns a number of veteran contributors, headlined by the starting backcourt of senior Donovan Catchings and junior Brandon McGlynn.

The two players have each started since their freshmen seasons at Dallastown and headline a strong returning core for the 2016-17 Wildcats.

“Tenacious,” said head coach Mike Grassel of the guard tandem. “Defensively, they’re two of the best I’ve ever seen. And they’re unselfish offensively. That’s an experienced backcourt to have.”

Said McGlynn: “We have really good chemistry. Been playing together year-round, AAU. We’re pretty confident.”

It’s safe to say the duo will drive the Wildcats on a nightly basis this winter, as they look to make a move in YAIAA Division I.

Read more: YAIAA boys' basketball power rankings

The Wildcats have been no more than a .500 outfit in recent seasons — Dallastown holds a 33-33 overall record and a 23-25 mark in division play over the past three years.

But Grassel, Catchings and McGlynn all classified this year’s group as a veteran unit that will look to get up and down the floor.

The Wildcats don’t possess a ton of height, but figure to bring some athleticism to the court. With that, expect to see a team that traps and presses on defense to force misses and create turnovers. Transition offense could follow at the other end, meaning an up-tempo style.

“We have a few big kids, but a lot of guards,” Catchings said. “We’ll be running and gunning.”

Added Grassel: “Our guards are our starting point….We’re going to play 94 feet. It could be a different pace than what people are used to out of Dallastown basketball.”

The question is, will it translate into a sizable jump in the standings?

Northeastern is now in the YAIAA Division I mix, and is certain to have talent on its roster. Spring Grove returns after capturing the league championship last year.

The coaching acumen of Kevin Schieler figures to guide Central York, and William Penn's history can't be overlooked.

Still, it would be a mistake for the opposition to underestimate the Wildcats. A surprise season could be in store at Dallastown.

“It’s realistic,” Catchings said of a berth into the YAIAA tournament. “We have high expectations.”