By Ryan O’connor

Now coach E.J. Perry has the unenviable task of finding not only someone to replace Savage’s clutch play, but also filling the holes created by the departure of three all-state cagers.

“We try to reload rather than rebuild, and that’s what we’ve done fairly well,” said Perry of his 10-year tenure. “The difference is not having a Stephen Savage, who was able to create for himself and was able to get big rebounds. If we ever had to go to a guy, he was there. We need someone like him to emerge and be that player for us this year.”

It’s not that Salem doesn’t return plenty of talent, said Perry, who added the pieces are in place for consecutive titles. It’s just a matter of his team’s ability to consistently meet its short-term goals and provide itself another opportunity.

“One of our main goals is to make it to Durham (for the Class L tournament quarterfinals), which we have done six consecutive years going,” said Perry. “Our motto in the locker room is, ‘The road to Durham goes through Salem,’ and we want to make sure we’re there every year, good or bad.”

It all starts with Josh Jones, who has already scored 550 points entering his third year. Perry said the junior will almost surely eclipse 1,000 points in his career.

Aside from the prolific scoring threat, Salem also returns Dan Kinney, the 6-foot-4 player of the year in Division I volleyball, who now has five state titles on his resume - four straight in volleyball – and takes over as the Blue Devils starting center.

“That’s why he’s our captain,” said Perry. “He has five championship rings, and that just speaks volumes about the type of kid and type of player he is.”

Another captain, junior Mike Kimball, has made huge strides as he enters his third year at the varsity level.

“He was really our seventh man last year, and now this is his opportunity to start from the beginning of the season,” said Perry. “He, by far, had the best summer of any of the kids. He’s just ready for the season.”

Sean Stoodley, known for his physical play on the gridiron, started for the eventual state champs early last season before breaking his hand.

Though the 6-foot-2 forward returned for the title contest, Perry said he looks forward to seeing Stoodley play an entire season in the starting lineup.

Taking over at point guard is Josh Frederico, who received spot starts last season.

Returning as the team’s sixth man is Kevin Sledge, also known for his football prowess.

“He was one of main reason we won the championship game last year,” said Perry. “Sledge really thrives in that  role. When he comes in, he makes an instant impact on both offense and defense.”

Mark Addison, Salem’s 6-foot-4 sniper at shooting forward, keys the Blue Devils’ outside attack.