Livingston Academy’s boys basketball program is rebuilding around a blue-collar mentality as new Head Coach Nate Kennard challenges the Wildcats to restore a tradition of hard work, physical play and community pride following a winless season.
Kennard said the team has adopted three guiding principles known as the “Three I’s”: integrity, intensity and inspire. Players completed eight weeks of offseason strength and conditioning as the coaching staff worked to establish expectations for effort and accountability.
“I want us to put a good product on the floor to where our community wants to come up and watch and see them play regardless of what the score is,” Kennard said. “They know that they’re going to get that kind of effort every single time when they come and watch these guys play.”
Kennard said the Wildcats are emphasizing physical toughness and a willingness to outwork opponents rather than relying on flashy plays. The approach is designed to give the team a recognizable identity regardless of the outcome of individual games.
“Our verbage and what we talk about is just working harder than the other team,” Kennard said. “We are a blue-collar team. We come in, we work hard. It’s not flashy, it’s just a lot of hard work.”
Kennard said veteran players have embraced leadership responsibilities, helping younger teammates develop their basketball knowledge and adjust to the program’s expectations.
“I’m seeing a lot of coaching on the floor and really helping those younger guys get better and making them play more physical, more alert, more knowledgeable about the game,” Kennard said. “My younger guys are coming along quick and it’s really fun to watch that eagerness.”
The Wildcats have also visited local middle schools and participated in community events involving service members. Kennard said those activities reinforce the importance of representing Livingston Academy beyond the basketball court.
Kennard previously served as an assistant coach at Livingston Academy from 2010 to 2015, when the Wildcats won 128 games and made three state tournament appearances. He said the program is embracing a new approach while drawing inspiration from its successful past.
Kennard said he is humbled by the opportunity to return as head coach and eager to see how the team’s offseason preparation translates into competition.