Berdine is entering his 23rd year as head coach, and the Dragons are coming off a strong 17-5 overall record in the 2024-25 season.

Boasting a 13-1 Region 5 record, the Dragons are hoping to once again be competitive in the District 10 playoff picture, and aspire to win the region title again this year.

“This year we have a lot of depth and movable pieces when it comes to our roster,” Berdine said. “Last year we struggled at times to handle pressure, so we will need to improve in this area throughout the course of the year. Last year we improved a lot on the defensive end, and when we struggled offensively, our defense carried us. This year’s team will have to develop that mindset.”

Warren will utilize their depth from the likes of Logan Crissey, Allen Eaton, Jacob McMeans, Lucas Thrift, Tage Wyman, Colin Zdarko and new transfer David Manning. Also expected to make an impact are juniors Charlie Blum, Brady Chase, Max Spiegel and Landon Wood.

Warren’s Colin Zdarko shoots under the watchful eye of head coach Jeff Berdine during practice earlier this month. Photo courtesy of Mark Evans

“Every team has to build its own identity. Our culture from player No. 1 to player No. 20 is that our expectations and their accountability are the same. Learn to be a winner, a good teammate, and a better person,” Berdine said.

“I have always said to have faith in your skills and belief in your teammates. Whatever it takes to get the ‘W.’ We will need to remain healthy (mentally and physically), limit our turnovers, and consistently be the better defensive team.”

The Dragons will anticipate many tough opponents including Fort LeBeouf, Mercyhurst Prep and Girard in addition to the Eisenhower tip-off tournament right off the bat.

Berdine obviously wants to win as many games as he can, but wants his players to understand, “… what it takes to be a good teammate, and the focus it takes to learn how to succeed. This year we have a lot of moving parts in terms of players with different strengths and weaknesses, so it is challenging to get them in their right roles.

“We appreciate the communities’ support and hope you are looking forward to another successful season coming off a Region 5 title last year, and a District 10 Championship the year before,” Berdine added.

Warren’s David Manning shoots over Colin Zdarko during practice earlier this month. Photo courtesy of Mark Evans