Mellies leaves big gap in scoring, inside play

The goal: Replace Andrew Mellies.

One solution: Joel Price, Phillip Brock, Daniel Ellinghouse and T.J. Crowden.

Eagle Ridge Christian School coach Tony Hammack says the four returning starters have the potential to lift their team to an even better finish than last season's consolation win in the Missouri Christian School Activities Association tournament.

Considering the 30 points-per-game presence of the 6-foot-5 Mellies last season, replacing him won't be a one-man job.

"Andrew wasn't massive as far as size," Hammack said, "but he was a dominant player. "

But his absence this season opens a door for new leadership, and that's where Hammack hopes his four returning starters come in. Price and Ellinghouse, both 5-foot-10, averaged in double figures on last year's 13-9 team. Brock, at 6-3, is the team's tallest player by about four inches. T.J. Crowden returns experience at guard.

They'll be part of a roster of about 10 varsity players, slightly more than last season. The school has about 30 students in grades nine through 12.

"If those four kids can step up just a little, they can equal Andrew's contribution last year and then some," Hammack said. "This season we have the potential to be better. Andrew had a great year, but this year our guards have matured and we have senior leadership coming back. I'm looking for good things from this group."

A.J. Kunz, a 5-8 senior, also should contend for a starting spot. Depth is a concern, but Hammack is hopeful that players will step up.

"Sometimes when other players are in the shadows of such a dominant player as Andrew, I think maybe they don't take the opportunity to shine when it's available," Hammack said. "This year, I look for some people to step up and take that opportunity."