The 2008-09 Eastern Eagles finished a record-setting season by claiming the school's 6th ever regional championship and reaching the State Quarterfinals before bowing out 71-65 to Central. This edition of the Eagles finished the season 31-3, only the second team in school history to win 30 games in a season. They also became the first team to win 20 games for the 4th consecutive year, claim an L.I.T. championship, and a 7th Region crown. Additionally, they also added championships at the Capital City Classic and the Monticello Bank Holiday Classic.
There were many individual highlights as well. Chris Dowe was named the L.I.T. Most Valuable Player as well as 7th Region Player of the Year and 2nd Team All-State. Delquan Thomas was named 1st Team All-Region and Honorable Mention All-State while Remy Abell was named 2nd Team All-Region. There were two other Eagles that were named to All-Tournament Teams throughout the season: Lyonell Gaines and Arman Marks. Senior starter Rodrick Millner and Sophomore reserve Jon Davis did a great job of patrolling the middle for the Eagles while speedy guard Byron Sanford provided great defense. Other members of the 2009 7th Region Champs include: Hayden McNeil, Matt O'Neal, Kenneth Parker, Calvin Hill, Jonny Clements, Chris Taylor and Kameron Woods.
Women's
Coach Zena Heckstall (Coach Z) begins her second year at the helm after coming off of a disappointing season that ended with a 10-14 record. Although she loses eight seniors from the program she has high hopes and expectations for the returning players and incoming freshman. Coach Z hopes that the success the team had with being the district runner-ups, a bid to the LIT, and a berth to the regional tournament will be the motivation the players need for this upcoming season. As a former Uof L player who played in a program that was rebuilding, Coach Z understands the commitment and dedication needed to rebuild a program and welcomes the challenge. Her motto is “You must BELIEVE to ACHIEVE” and she certainly does.
Coach Z coached seven years as an assistant at the high school level here in Louisville before joining Eastern High School as the Girl’s Varsity Coach.
Top players returning: Seniors Joy Finner, Johannah Hamilton and Lauren Murphy
