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02/22/2017 11:00 PMJake Sullivan was put in a position where there wasn’t much varsity experience surrounding him on the Branford boys’ basketball team in his current senior year. However, that didn’t discourage Jake, who welcomed the challenge of leading the young squad as a captain and feels that’s benefited him this season.
“It definitely helped a lot with my growth as a player and a man. In the world, you have to work with different people, coaches, leaders, and bosses. You have to work hard and make it right,” Jake says. “It was great to have a great example from Kory King last year, who was in the same type of position—being the leader and making sure everything worked out.”
Jake has put in tons of work to build his leadership skills through the years, including his experience in AAU basketball. As one who constantly gives an extra effort, Jake’s track record provides a great example for the younger Hornets to follow.
“I’ve been playing AAU since the 6th grade and the competition is just unbelievable. When you practice with them, you learn new habits and routines. It helps push you,” says Jake. “I think what helped me is after every drill, instead of shooting 10 free throws, I make 10 free throws while I’m tired before going to get a drink. It pushes myself a little further and has helped me improve in the little ways.”
Jake was a clear-cut choice to be one of Branford’s captains this season and it’s a role he takes great pride in. Jake knows that it’s just not about being a solid player, but about leading his team both on and off the court.
“It means a lot to be captain. It also means everyone is watching. You never know who is watching you. You need to always play as good as you can and you need to set a good example,” he says. “The kids in the middle school program in 7th and 8th grade are coming up and they’re excited to watch you play because they want to be like the captain. You have to always keep your attitude right, as well as your game.”
Head Coach Jake Palluzzi says that his captain has worn many hats for the Hornets this season. Jake has played everywhere from point guard to center and is a key reason why Branford fought its way into the postseason.
“He plays a lot of positions for us. He shoots the ball, handles the ball, rebounds the ball, and plays the point on defense a lot of times. I call him my point forward because he does a lot for us and our program,” Coach Palluzzi says. “It’s a luxury having him because you know you can put him in a lot of different positions. He’s got great court savvy and he’s been a starter for three years. He knows the game, understands the game, and he’s led our team in every category at some point. He just does a lot for our team this year and he’s been a valuable member.”
Jake is averaging 17.6 points, seven rebounds, and four assists per game this season. While Jake thinks it’s cool to add to his personal résumé, he’s been more focused on helping the Hornets win enough games to qualify for the SCC and State tournaments, and they achieved that feat last week.
“That definitely means a lot, but it’s not what I’m thinking about. I want to win, but leading by example, I put my heart and soul into every game,” says Jake. “I do what I can without trying to do too much. I play my game with 110-percent effort. Effort is free, so you can work as hard as you can and, if you do, good things are going to happen.”