After leading the Bravettes basketball team to a 214-69 record over the past 12 years, including four state second places, coach Joe Antonietti needed a change. Antonietti retired from the girls team last season to take the job as head boys coach for Flathead High.
"I was looking for a change," said Antonietti. "I enjoyed (coaching) the girls for the last 12 years (but) I am anxious to get back to the guys."
Antonietti began his coaching career in 1976 at Park City High School in Park City, Mont, where he was the head boys coach. After three seasons at Park City, Antonietti coached at a number of different programs, concluding with a season as assistant coach at Carroll College.
"As a young coach I was probably much more impulsive," said Antonietti. "Experience is a great teacher."
Leaving Carroll College after the 1983 season, Antonietti came to Flathead in 1984 to coach the Bravettes. Twelve years later, with the start of the Braves 1996 season (tryouts begin Nov. 25), coach Antonietti hopes to add a new personality to his team.
"I prefer to run," said Antonietti of his coaching style. "But if we don't have the ability, we'll slow it down. It depends on the personnel."
After coaching girls for 12 years, Antonietti notes there are differences between boys and girls.
"The (boy's) game is faster," said Antonietti. "Things happen quicker."
"From my experience, girls may be more coachable, but boys are less moody."
According to Antonietti, there will be a lot of talent to evaluate for this year's team.
"Tryouts will be extremely competitive," said Antonietti. "There are lots of kids to choose from."
Among the many players Antonietti has to choose from is senior Eric Rich, who played on varsity last year.
"Mr. Antonietti knows the game extremely well," said Rich. "It should be a great year."
The large number of athletes trying out could lead to a strong basketball program at FHS.
Said Antonietti:
"I want to get to the state tournament and play (the championship game) Saturday night."