The Comets seem to be soaring in the right direction at Clifton Central. Since a Regional championship during the 1996-97 season, the team has only had two winning seasons, plus last year's 15-15 campaign.

Clifton Central was able to make headway in 2008-09, advancing to a Regional title game for the first time in 12 seasons. "Although we came up short in (Regional championship), we were very pleased with the progress the program has made. We believe we're headed in the right direction," coach Shannon Anderson said.

A year ago, the Comets boasted an IBCA All-State special mention player in Matt Lemenager, who also finished as the assists leader (197) in the Kankakee-area. The team also graduated Austin Yohnka, a Sangamon Valley conference special mention.

Returning for coach Anderson will be Trent Faulkner (5'11" Jr. Guard). "(Faulkner) was a starter last year until an injury late in the season sidelined him." Faulkner averaged 7.0 points/game as a sophomore. Cody Lehmkuhl (5'10" Jr. Guard) also saw time late in the season. "A defensive stopper with above average quickness." Classmate Kyle Frake (5'10" Jr. Guard) came in late in the season and cracked the starting rotation.

Other players that will see significant time will be, Jeremy Washington (6'3" Sr. Forward). "(Washington) came off the bench and provided the Comets with another inside scoring option and defensive presence in the paint." Another forward will be, Keaton McCormick (6'2" Sr. Forward). "Improved perimeter game to complement his ability to get to the basket. Lanky frame suits his style of play on defense." Aiming to be the man in the middle at Clifton Central this winter will be Chris Bauer (6'5" Sr. Center). "Was a solid post player last year, averaging 4.0 rebounds/game. Looking to hold down the center position this year."

Along with a full stable of returning players and starters, the Comets have some talented newcomers on this year's team. David Payne (5'9" Jr.) is a very athletic player that should see valuable minutes on the floor. "Although somewhat limited by height, (Comets) have to find time for him. His hustle and style of play change the game." Another piece that could contribute will be Jakob Lindgren (5'10" Jr.). "Last year, Jakob showed a flash for finishing games as he has a couple game-winners at the JV level." Michael Balthazor (5'11" Jr.) could also see minutes. "A steady player on offense and defense, Balthazor's best contribution may be his ability to steady the ship."

Shannon Anderson enters his third season for the Comets. During his first campaign, the team finished 10-18, before last year's 15-15 record. From 2004-05 through 2006-07, the Comets only won seven games in those three seasons. The furthest run of any Clifton Central boy's basketball team was a Sectional championship in 1991-92. That team finished 25-4 under coach Ed Sennett. Sennett won 117 games in six seasons at Clifton Central. Corliss Norton won 190 games at Central during his 11 seasons as head coach (1951-52 to 1961-62).