The basketball season for the Camosun Chargers has officially started, with the men’s team winning their opening game on the evening of October 24 against the Okanagan Coyotes, and defeating the Coyotes again on October 25. With a combination of returning players and new recruits, the team has been working through pre-season, focusing on skill development, endurance, and team chemistry. The Chargers were strong in the previous regular season, but came up short in the playoffs, giving this year’s roster extra motivation. With familiar rivals and a demanding league, the team is excited to see how new dynamics will evolve on the court.
The coaching staff has been developing a strong foundation for both veterans and new recruits. Practice includes rigorous drills designed to strengthen shooting accuracy, defensive strategies, and team communication. According to players, the intensity of these sessions has helped them develop not only physically but also mentally, learning to analyze the game and to decide under pressure. Coaches have also implemented situational training, such as responding to turnovers, fast breaks, and defensive adjustments, which help players improve their awareness of the court and adaptability during live games.
Guard Cole Belton has been preparing intensely for the season. Now in his fifth year, Belton brings focus, discipline, and a steady presence to the team, helping new players integrate while continuing to improve his own performance.
“I’m really excited,” he says. “I think we have a good chance to do really good this year.”
Belton says the team has put in lots of effort during pre-season.
“We practice five times a week,” he says. “It’s been a long month-and-a-half of work, but I think it’s really paid off.”
The training sessions include skill drills, tactical plays, and endurance exercises, which have been helpful for players to build chemistry by understanding each other’s roles on the court. As a guard, Belton’s role this season will go beyond individual performance.
“Going into my fifth year, I’m more of a leader,” he says, “helping the newer guys feel comfortable and perform their best.”
Belton balances personal development with aspects such as working on his shot and controlling the pace of the game, simultaneously mentoring his fellow players and maintaining high energy on defense. His experience allows him to become a guiding presence both during practice and games. Belton is also working side by side with new recruits to help them adjust to the league’s pace, teaching them positioning and strategic decision-making and, overall, just driving them toward settling in the group in a way that makes them feel prepared for future matches.
“The biggest thing with our team is that we’re all connected,” he says. “We all buy into what the team wants to do and play unselfishly. We’re all willing to sacrifice whenever we need.”
Beyond the court, the Chargers keep a strong team culture, having players discussing strategy to refine overall communication, fostering a supportive environment where all players are ready to contribute. The team’s ultimate goal this season is clear: win the provincials and advance toward nationals. While individual skill is highly important, Belton says that teamwork and connection are the core values that drive them forward.
“This year, I just want to show what we can do as a team, win gold at the provincials, and take that performance into nationals,” says Belton.
Community engagement is a relevant aspect for this season. Players recognize that the presence of supporters helps to create an atmosphere in which they can be encouraged to deliver a good performance. The energy from fans motivates players to communicate better on the court and maintain focus during games.
“Every game, every home weekend is going to be super exciting,” says Belton. “We’re going to have a lot of games where fans can celebrate success and watch some really good basketball.”