A New Era for Waitsburg Basketball
Chris Andrews has stepped into the role of head basketball coach at Waitsburg High School, succeeding Westin Wallace, who left the position to accept a teaching job in Reardan, Washington. Andrews comes to the varsity program after several years guiding the school’s middle‑school boys, where he honed a player‑first philosophy and a reputation for disciplined practice.
The transition was marked by a brief but decisive hand‑over in early June, as Wallace handed over playbooks and locker‑room responsibilities to Andrews. In a short interview, Wallace cited his desire to focus on classroom duties while expressing confidence in Andrews’ ability to build on the program’s recent progress.
From June 29 through July 2, the Waitsburg boys traveled to the coastal town of Ilwaco to attend a summer basketball camp on the Long Beach Peninsula. The itinerary included daily drills, scrimmages, and exposure to competition from older varsity squads representing regional schools.
Financial support for the trip was secured through a combination of student‑led fundraising efforts and a $2,500 contribution from the Waitsburg Lions Club, a long‑standing community service organization. The club’s donation underscored its commitment to youth athletics in the region.
Throughout the camp, the Waitsburg team displayed resilience in the face of tougher opponents, often trailing early but rallying with disciplined defense and aggressive rebounding. Their performance impressed camp coaches, who highlighted the group’s tenacity and willingness to learn.
Community Backing Sets the Stage for Future Success
The combination of local fundraising, Lions Club generosity, and the players’ determination paints a promising picture for the upcoming season. With Andrews at the helm, the program aims to translate the camp experience into sustained growth, both on the court and in the classroom.