Colton Wischmeier is a good example of hard work paying off when it comes to basketball.
He began his basketball career in fifth grade at Lutheran Central in Brownstown, and has worked himself into a starting position at Trinity Lutheran this winter.
Wischmeier said his freshman year he played on both the freshman and junior varsity teams.
He played on the JV his sophomore year, split his time last winter between JV and varsity, and this season he has been starting varsity at a forward position.
“I play all-around,” he said, and mentioned since he is right-handed he likes to set up on the right side of the Cougars’ offense. “I like to go on the wing and drive into the lane.
“I feel comfortable shooting a 3-pointer. I like to shoot from the wing. I like that angle. I like to shoot straight on.”
Wischmeier’s high-game this season was 17 against West Washington, and he made three 3-pointers that game.
“I like facing a man-to-man defense so I can drive into the lane.” He said when opponents press the Cougars, he sets up at mid court to receive a pass and advances into the Trinity offense.
Wischmeier said he was counted on a lot by the team to rebound when center Kendall White was out for three games with an injury.
“I think I’m pretty good (at positioning), but I guess there’s room for improvement,” he said.
On defense, Wischmeier prefers to play man-to-man.
He sometimes plays as the center, or the off-guard, on defense.
The Cougars are off to a 1-4 start, and Wischmeier said the team needs improvement at both ends of the floor.
“We’ve got to play good defense, hit our free throws and talk more on defense,” he said. “We’ve got a great program, we’ve got a really good coach and we’ve got to get it turned around here.”
Brian Stuckwisch moved up from junior varsity to varsity coach this winter, and Wischmeier said he has noticed changes in practice.
“Our practices seem to run at a faster pace,” Wischmeier said. “We’re doing a good job transitioning into the new offense that we’re running.”
The senior believes that working hard in practice and have a positive attitude in any sport you play.
“You’ve got to keep calm under pressure, and just try to do your best and not worry about the situation, and focus on winning,” Wischmeier said.
Wischmeier said he’s enjoyed his time at Trinity Lutheran.
“I like the smaller atmosphere here at Trinity and I like the Lutheran education, and I want to continue that,” he said. “I like how the teachers are close and friendly. They help you when you have questions. It’s just a real close atmosphere here.”
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Name: Colton Wischmeier
School: Trinity Lutheran High School
Parents: Jerry and Dawn Wischmeier
Sibling: Jerrica
Sports: basketball 4 years
Organizations: FFA, student ambassador, Wegan Youth Group, 4H
Plans after high school: attend college
Favorite food: friend chicken
Favorite TV show: Gold Rush
Favorite music: Alan Jackson
Favorite movie: Step Brothers
Favorite team: Purdue University
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