Ryder Haynes is a junior at South Windsor High School and is one of the starting players on the school’s Varsity Basketball Team. Haynes sports number 22 on the court, and plays at the center position.
Beginning his basketball career at age 6, Haynes has been playing basketball for 10 years. Hayne’s talent is fueled by his love for his sport. He is a dedicated athlete, working consistently on improving his abilities.
Prior to high school, he played South Windsor Travel Basketball from 5th grade to 7th grade, while simultaneously playing for the CT Elite AAU team during the fall season.
During his freshman year at SWHS, Haynes joined the school basketball team, and quickly became one of the top players on the Junior Varsity Team.
Although the team is off to a rocky start, sitting at 1-4 thus far, the Bobcats hope to turn that around, using their talent to do so, along with the help of their new coach, Coach Ford-Hayes.
Haynes commented on how the season was going thus far.
“We are starting off slow. We have a lot of talent on the team, but I think we just need more time together,” Haynes said.
Haynes is one of the few 11th graders who has secured a spot in the starting five. He tends to play physical, using his 6 foot 4 frame and wide wingspan to his advantage.
“I have been shooting with confidence, playing good defense and trying to be the best teammate I can be on the bench when I am not playing,” Haynes said, reflecting on his time on the court this season.
Haynes’ stats this year have been exceptional, averaging 10 points and 10 rebounds per game. He had a high of 20 points against the Windsor Locks Raiders, as well as 3 assists.
“I am helping my teammates find shots for themselves,” Haynes said.
He is a valuable asset to the team, is loved by his teammates, and brings positive energy to the basketball environment. Coach Ford-Hayes, new to SWHS Basketball program, would agree.
“Ryder brings incredible energy to the team with his talent, dedication, and coachability. He’s the kind of player who leads by example, setting the tone with his hard work and determination every time he steps on the court. Ryder’s ability to stay focused and push himself to improve makes him a key part of our success, and his leadership inspires those around him to raise their game,” Ford-Hayes stated.
Haynes, along with being an important asset to the team, inspires the younger players as well.
“Whenever I am in practice, I try to compete with Ryder, he makes myself and the team better with his talent,” sophomore center Adam Alami told The Prowl.
He is now getting the opportunity to show his skills that he has developed over the years, and is looking forward to the rest of his junior season alongside Coach Ford-Hayes and the Bobcats.