Daily News Photo Florence’s Kaden Schuls (23) saves the ball near the baseline during a game last season at Niagara, Wis. Niagara’s Tristan DeJardin (10) follows the play. Florence travels to Niagara to tip off the season on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

FLORENCE, Wis. — The 2018-2019 season for the Florence Bobcats boys basketball team was a successful one. Finishing with a record of 16-6, head coach Bryan Bomberg saw his team’s season end in the WIAA Regional Finals vs. Gibraltar.

Players lost from last years team include Evan Beaster, who was selected first team Northern Lakes Conference, Joe Walstrom, Logan Doda, Hunter Browning and Simon Rebledo.

“We return four starters from a season ago, along with four players who have been on varsity full-time since they were sophomores. Coming into the season, I am concerned about how quickly we gel as a team. It has to be a focal point for the players right from the get go,” said Bomberg. “Expectations from the players and coaches are pretty high as we start the season.”

Bomberg looks forward to two new non-conference opponents being added to the Bobcats schedule in Stephenson and Norway. “I expect those games are a bit more physical than our Northern Lakes Conference games. Our conference from top to bottom should be far more competitive than it’s been in the past,” Bomberg said. “I fully believe we are capable of contending for the conference crown this year, but it will depend on the commitment from the players on the glass and defensive side of the ball.”

Senior Toby Wheeler will be a member of the team, but will have to miss the season due to a knee injury sustained in the football season. Bomberg noted that Wheeler’s leadership is second to none and he’ll be missed on the court this season.

Kris Johnson returns to the bench as JV coach. Florence opens up the season on the road at long time non-conference foe Niagara on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The Bobcats first Northern Lakes Conference game is at Phelps, Friday, Dec. 6.

SENIORS –Paul Millan (5-9), Lucas Krueger (5-10), Riley Hixon (6-0), Patrick Milan (6-0), Kaden Schuls (6-0)

JUNIORS–Austin Hoey (6-2), Blake McLain (6-0), Braden Boettcher (6-1)

SOPHOMORE — Preston Stoltz (6-2)

FRESHMAN — Evan Johnson (6-0)