TFH Hawks Summer Recap

About The Team

The TFH Hawks are one of those teams that gave players an opportunity to play on a level that very few other would give them. TFH, which coach Stephen Griffin told us, stands for Ten For Him is a reference to spending just 10 minutes in prayer each day. It was something that the team bought into heavily to where instead of just praying before and after games and practices, the guys were asking to pray as a team before meals.

The other unique story with his team was something else that he shared with us earlier in the summer then touched on again recently. His son Matthew Griffin is 18 years old and severely autistic. His younger brother Noah is one of the leaders on the team and Matthew doesn't miss a game. Here is a little bit about what he told us earlier this summer:

“Although Matthew is not verbal he has affected so many lives.  From the inner city kid from New Orleans last year who took it upon himself to look after Matthew at one tournament, to the families in Thibodeaux, Louisiana who always went out of their way to make him comfortable to the tournament hosts in Dallas who gave him special attention – Matthew changes lives.  He brings the good out of good people.”

At some point throughout the summer, each person has an opportunity to look out for Matthew and it built character even stronger in this group. Leaders are formed on and off the court and coach told us that Darian Minor was the one who was last to leave the table because he was making sure chairs were pushed in.

About The Players

We asked coach for a little insight on each player but wouldn't make him do so on his son so we'll give our thoughts on him and let you see what coach has to say about others.

Noah Griffin – 2016 SG, Hannan – Noah was listed in our Top 10 shooters so that goes without question. The athleticism developing and the skill level in other areas are impressive though. Real chance to play D1 basketball.

Xavian McKay 2016 SG, Holy Cross – Due to our lack of size Xavian had to constantly guard players bigger than him.  Never a complaint.  He is a competitor who attacks the rim and can shoot the 3.  Our second leading scorer.

Lane Bolner – 2016 PG, Hahnville – Tremendous understanding of the game.  Handles the ball and sees the court very well.  One of those players when you look at the stat line after the game he has 5 or 6 rebounds, steals and assists.

Brooks Murrell – 2017 SF, Hannan – Brooks may have improved from the first game to the last game more than anyone else as he got more comfortable with the speed of the game.  His 6'5 frame allowed him to finish more and more around the rim.

Patrick Bossetta – 2016 SF, Hannan – Played out of position all summer as he routinely guarded the other teams biggest, strongest player.  Saved his best game for last at Nationals as he was hitting 3's from everywhere.

Joshua Williams – 2017 PG, Chalmette – Great handles and quick. Type of kid who walks across the gym to shake your hand when he sees you.  Very, very solid all around player.

Darien Minor – 2016 SG, Lusher – another player who had to play out of position against other teams bigs.  Extremely high character player with solid all around skills.  Very athletic.  Coaches dream.

Dillon Smith – 2016 SF, Lakeshore – had to play a lot of 5 for us.  Very heady player who is not afraid to mix it up.  Can step outside and shoot it very well.

Zachary Pisciotta – 2017 PG,  Pope John Paul – another player who gives you all that he has and improved a lot from beginning to end.

Brent Rideau – 2016 PF, Pope John Paul – provided our most physical presence inside.  Plays with a chip on his shoulder and loves to compete.

Jonathan Sigler – 2016 SF Hannan – another player who did not have experience at this level but improved each game as he got more comfortable.  Can score in multiple ways.