The Carroll County Junior Panthers basketball league has been resurrected under the direction of the varsity boys’ and girls’ basketball coaches. The goal is to create a true feeder program that can benefit student athletes from the point they start playing the game.
“Our goal was to bring back a youth basketball development program in Carroll County that fosters athletic skills, teamwork, and personal growth,” said Lady Panthers Head Coach Brandon Hicks. “By providing access to quality coaching, facilities, and resources, we aim to create a supportive environment where young athletes can thrive and reach their full potential both on and off the court.”
He and Panthers Head Coach Roger Harden collaborated and settled on the idea of introducing our younger Panthers to the players and coaches who they will interact with in the upper grades. Hicks and Harden referee games and are in the stands interacting with players and giving insights on their performances.
CCJP has nine teams with 86 student athletes, all of whom attend Carroll County Schools. There are four girls’ teams and five boys’ teams ranging from first through sixth grades. They play in a North Central Kentucky Conference (NCKC) league and a league in Madison, Indiana as well as practice two or three times a week.
“By reintroducing this program, we were aiming to provide early training and development opportunities, to develop a love for the sport and to ensure that young athletes have the skills and support needed to excel at higher levels,” Hicks added.
The coaches said CCJP will provide young athletes with opportunities to develop their skills, build confidence, and learn the value of teamwork and discipline. Ultimately, this program will contribute to the overall well-being and future success of our county's youth.
"Coach Hicks, Coach Harden, and their staff have done an exceptional job laying the foundation for the resurgence of our youth basketball program,” said Athletic Director Scott Anderson. “Their dedication and countless hours of hard work this year have been instrumental in fostering a winning culture within our community. I am excited to see all of our sports programs follow the example set by the basketball program, embracing the same level of commitment and investment in the youth of Carroll County.”
Thank you to all the volunteer coaches who make this program a success. They include:
Girls’ 1/2/3rd grade: Madie Hicks
Girls’ 4th grade: Zach Spencer and Donnie Hensley
Girls’ 5th grade: Renaye Dickerson
Girls’ 6th grade: Zach Spencer
Boys’ 1/2nd grade: Derrick Barnhill and Landon Groves
Boys’ 3rd grade: Cody Proctor and Jesse Proctor
Boys’ 4th grade: Keashaun Mumphrey and Wyatt Supplee
Boys’ 5th and 6th grade: Scott Durham and Patrick Booth