In advance of the upcoming basketball season, The Leader sent a questionnaire to Oakdale Mustangs boys varsity head coach Jeremy Fields, seeking some thoughts on the campaign. Following are the questions and coach Fields’ answers.

How long have you been coaching this sport/team?

Eight years as varsity head coach at Oakdale.

Who are your key returners?

Octavio Padilla –Point Guard, Shane Baxter-Forward, Adam Olsen-Guard.

Who are the key additions to the team?

Nate Van Cleave.

What would you say are the team’s strengths?

Effort, coachability – we’re transitioning to a new system.

What areas do you want to see improvement in?

Maintaining defensive aggressiveness, rebounding.

League outlook – who will be the toughest?

Sierra, Central Catholic, Weston Ranch, Manteca.

What do you hope for in the preseason matches you schedule?

Gain game experience in our system, learn how to compete.

What kind of offseason work did the kids do to prepare for this year’s competition?

Played over 25 games this summer, summer practices, weight room, team camp.

Is there a word or phrase that describes your coaching philosophy?

Better yourself each day.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Seeing someone accomplish something they didn’t think they could.