New Analy head paid his dues coaching at all levels
The Jason Carpenter era has officially begun for the Analy High School basketball program, as the longtime basketball and golf coach takes the reins from successful varsity coach Brett Page.
An Advanced Placement history and government teacher at the school, Carpenter has been a fixture in the Analy coaching ranks for more than two decades.
In addition to coaching freshman and junior varisity basketball for 10 years, Carpenter also had a run of success in leading the boys golf program for a couple of seasons.
Page, who stepped down this spring after 10 years at the helm, elevated the Tigers’ program to elite status in compiling a 206-87 win-loss record, a span that included seven Sonoma County League pennants and one North Coast section title.
Although his ascension to the top basketball post is not without its expectations and the usual trappings of success, the new head coach has embraced the challenge.
“I welcome the pressure,” Carpenter said. “Brett set such a great standard, but I’ve been a part of the success of the program in coaching the kids at other levels. I’m ready to carry on the winning tradition.”
Since taking the helm, Carpenter has ensured a smooth transition for the program, putting the Tigers through a strong off-season regimen that includes three practices per week, along with participation in the Santa Rosa Junior College summer league. In addition, the team will play in five tournaments this summer, including the upcoming Windsor Summer Shootout on July 14-15.
The Flying Tigers figure to be tested next season following radical league realignment, as Analy competes in the new Oak Division with the likes of Windsor, Montgomery, Cardinal Newman, Piner and Santa Rosa.
“The Oak Division will be the toughest league ever and we’ll have our hands full,” Carpenter predicted. “Since we only have 10 league games instead of 12, we’ve added an extra (pre-season) tournament.”
Carpenter has already completed his coaching staff, which includes varsity assistant Chris Dluzak, who he refers to as an “old sage.” Stephen Hammerle will head the JV team while Andy Schmitt will coach the frosh squad.
Looking ahead to next season, the Flying Tigers should have a good complement of veterans and young talent, led by returning seniors JJ Fain and Quinn Vermeulan.
“These guys will be our leaders,” Carpenter noted. “We’re expecting big things from them.”
