Two Belchertown High School student-athletes recently took the next step in their athletic careers by committing to play collegiate athletics.
Coaches at the school lauded the Belchertown athletic experience, helping both student-athletes find great success after their high school seasons came to an end.
Basketball star Jordan Lanoue committed to play basketball at Lasell University in Newton. Lanoue, a senior forward, said he is excited to see where this opportunity will bring him.
“Coming to Lasell as a freshman, I look forward to learning from the older guys in the program who will help me develop into a stronger player,” Lanoue said. “I am excited to prove to the coaching staff what an asset I can be to the program.”
Lanoue is a four-year contributor for the BHS basketball program, starting on JV before transitioning to the varsity squad. His roots on the court begin much before that, however.
“I was a part of the St. Francis Catholic Youth Organization starting in second grade” Lanoue said. “My dad is a major influence when it comes to basketball. He is the one who taught me how to play. Before CYO, my dad had my brother and I practiced in the yard all the time before I can even remember.”
Lanoue said his time as an Oriole in particular granted him the ability to grow as a mature player, teammate and leader.
“Playing for BHS allowed me to grow friendships with past players who were older than me and young players who now look up to me,” Lanoue said. “I have had the ability to be coached by my older teammates as well as coach new players during drills at practice.”
Belchertown head coach Matt Stenius praised Lanoue’s time spent on the court over the past four years.
“As an incoming freshman four years ago, we knew he was a special player,” Stenius offered of Lanoue. “With a love for the game and his outstanding work ethic, he is a natural leader, mentor and role model for underclassmen. Beyond the stats, he is authentic and a great person. He makes everyone better around him.”
Lanoue’s efforts should certainly translate well to Lasell’s basketball program.
“After making my visit to the school and talking with Coach (Aaron) Galleta, I really enjoyed their home court and facilities as well as the way he coaches and how they play,” Lanoue mentioned. “Watching game film from the previous year has helped me see where I fit in.”
Gridiorn star Hunter Englert decided on the same athletic fate, leaving Belchertown High School to play at the collegiate level next year. Englert, an offensive and defensive tackle for the Orioles, will suit up for Franklin Pierce University’s football program.
Englert began playing Pop Warner football in Chicopee when he was in kindergarten. Ironically, he mentioned that he originally started off playing soccer but soon realized that his strength was more suited for the gridiron.
“Every aspect of football has taught me how to become a better athlete and person,” Englert said. “Whether it’s through sportsmanship, respect or team skills.”
Englert said his time at Belchertown has helped him attain the growth needed to take his game and schooling to the next level.
“I feel as though as I matured both physically and mentally now that I am bigger and stronger,” he explained. “I feel as though I have a better head on my shoulders from working with a team that has taught me discipline.”
Belchertown football coach Ed Wyzik said he’s seen that same kind of athletic maturity from Englert.
“Hunter Englert is the example of a role model and academic athlete all in one,” Wyzik said. “It doesn’t matter how big or small a high school might be, they will always find you.”
Franklin Pierce’s football program is known for its selective recruitment and powerful resources used to produce even better athletes. Englert said he is joining their program with great anticipation.
“I look forward to creating a new family with my teammates, as well as becoming stronger as a player,” he said. “Their football program appealed to me because it was smaller, which meant a tighter community. Coach (Russell) Gaskamp was probably one of the friendliest people I’ve ever met.”
There is no set date for a signing ceremony at this time, though it is expected to be held after in-person school activities return.