By KEN HAMWEY

Staff Sports Writer

Shane Jackson’s first season as boys’ head basketball coach at Medway High last year was a smooth transition for the Mustangs. That’s because the personable Jackson spent six years as an assistant at Medway, working first as a freshman and junior-varsity coach then as a varsity aide.

Shane Jackson won coach of the year honors in the Tri Valley League’s Small Division after his first season at Medway High.

Jackson’s rookie campaign was successful. His squad compiled an overall record of 13-9, finished second in the Tri Valley League Small Division, and managed a split in the state tourney, beating Weston before losing to Boston Tech.

And his competitive approach, positive demeanor and effective style didn’t go unnoticed. His rookie season concluded with TVL Small Division Coach of the Year honors. “It was a proud moment but now it’s all about how our team can improve,’’ he said.

The 40-year-old Jackson, who has eight players returning from last year, has set his goals for year two and they reflect his commitment for progress.

“We want to contend for the TVL Small Division championship,” he said. “Qualifying for the tourney with an eye towards advancing deep is another objective. Another goal is to strive for a home game in the playoffs. That provides a positive experience for the players.’’

Achieving those goals shouldn’t be a problem based on the Mustangs’ team strengths, which emphasize all the attributes needed for success.

“We’ve got a strong team culture,’’ said Jackson. “That shows that our players rely on each other. “Our players are coachable and they work hard on improving their basketball IQs. We also have depth and experience and our team chemistry is a plus. Our defensive skills are strong but we’re still working to strengthen our offensive technique.’’

Medway’s three senior captains — Brendan McNamara (guard), Jack Gould (forward-center) and Caden Reisman (guard) — lead in a variety of ways. “Brendan leads by being competitive, Jack leads by example and Caden is vocal and supportive,’’ Jackson said.

All three captains are in their third varsity season.

“Brendan is resilient on defense and is a good spot shooter,’’ Jackson noted. “His low-post footwork is effective and he wants to guard our opposing teams’ top backcourt players. A good free-throw shooter, he knows how to win.

“Jack is 6-6 and last year he averaged nine points and seven rebounds. He’s got an incredible motor, always giving 100 percent. Jack’s court sense in the paint is very good, he’s got an effective mid-range jumper and he finishes well.

“Caden is a two-way guard who sees the floor well and gets to the hoop. An all-around, hard-working player, he’s a shifty defender (two steals a game) who can shoot threes. Last year, his assist-to-turnover ratio was excellent.’’

Reuben Simon suffered an injury before the season began last year and wasn’t at full strength. But, the guard-forward is back and Jackson likes what he brings to the table. “Reuben can shoot, he hustles, he’s long, quick, strong and athletic,’’ said Jackson. “He can be a quality rebounder and he can shoot threes from the wing or at forward.’’

Junior Matthew Parlon provides depth at point guard. “He can team with Caden and that combination gives us strength,’’ Jackson offered. “A good shooter and passer, Matthew gets to the hoop with smooth and deliberate movements and he knows how to control the game’s tempo.’’

Seniors Christian Chiplock (point guard), Jaron McInnis (point guard-wing), and Derwin Narcisse (center) will be called on to contribute. “Christian is a defensive specialist, Jaron has lots of grit and Derwin is a solid defender and rebounder,’’ Jackson said. “They will all contribute in a positive way and fill key roles.’’

Sophomore Jacob White (point guard), junior power forward Brady Girard, and junior two-way guard Haven Miele round out Jackson’s nucleus.

“Jacob mostly played on the jayvees last year,’’ Jackson noted. “He’s poised, athletic and has a high basketball IQ. A good ball-handler, he passes effectively and shoots well. Brady is vocal, hustles to the right spots and gets players into position. At 6-foot-1, he plays bigger than his size and he moves quickly. Haven works hard and he’s dedicated. Hopefully he’ll be impactful.’’

Jackson rates Dover-Sherborn, Dedham and Norton as teams that likely will battle for the TVL Small Division crown. “They’re tough, have tradition and are well-coached,’’ he said. “Bellingham may be another team to watch. They have some quality players and they compete hard.’’

The Mustangs will open their season on Dec. 12 by hosting Norton. Their non-league games include Stoughton and Holliston. A tourney in Milford will enable them to play two more non-league contests and their opponents will be two teams from among Milford, Grafton and Worcester South.

Jackson’s coaching staff will include Ed Healey (jayvees), Andrew Tiernan (freshmen), Jacob Citron (varsity assistant) and Tim Corcoran (head varsity assistant).

Jackson, who spent seven years as an assistant with Dean College’s women’s basketball team, relies on an athletic philosophy that winning is a by-product of hard work and effort. “Winning comes from a desire to improve,’’ he emphasized. “Winning instills confidence, creates a positive experience and helps players reach their potential. It’s helpful when players know they still have room to grow.’’

There are life lessons that Jackson hopes his players learn from sports and a key one is how to overcome adversity. “The key is once adversity strikes, what’s the next step,’’ he said. “Learning how to lead and to be good teammates are important lessons. And, I also want our kids to become good citizens and good human beings. Strive to be the best you can be.’’

The Mustangs style of play will focus on defensive pressure and an efficient offense.

That blend should get results and Shane Jackson is relying on that mix to enrich the boys basketball program at Medway High.