One of eight seniors, Whitehall’s Seth Hoderewski is aware that his time on the basketball court continues to be limited.

Hoderewski played a key role in the Zephyrs’ 19-9 season last year that ended in a state playoff game. This season, Whitehall is batting for a possible East Penn Conference (EPC) spot as well as a district playoff berth.

The Zephyrs began the week with an overall 7-9 mark and needed four wins in their final six games to gain an invite to the district tournament.

Hoderewski realizes there is building pressure for his team to get back to the postseason, but he is confident they can succeed due to some long-standing relationships on and off the court.

“As a senior it does, of course, cross my mind about the what if’s on making the playoffs or not being my last year,” said Hoderewski. “But from years of experience playing varsity basketball together, the pressure seems to lift off our shoulders each day that we’re together.”

Whitehall’s fate can be decided this week with a busy week. The Zephyrs will travel to Dieruff Tuesday, host Northampton Wednesday, and then host Parkland Friday. Earlier, Dieruff beat Whitehall, 62-51, to open the season Dec. 1, and Parkland edged the Zephyrs, 53-52, on Dec. 9.

The Zephyrs began the week off a loss at Nazareth and victory over Emmaus. In their win over Emmaus, the Zephyrs had a balanced attack with Tanner Dogmanits’s 16 points, Hoderewski’s 15 points, and Jack Lloyd’s 14. Whitehall also received some valuable points from their bench.

Hoderewski and his teammates are banking on their tight team bond to clear any hurdles.

“With the group of guys we have, we believe in taking it day-by--day and one day at a time,” he said. “We will be right where we want to be. Our goals are still right in-front of us, and I don’t think the bond this group has can be broken from the thought of not playing in playoffs.”

Head coach Jeff Jones debunked any pressure surrounding his team.

“They are not feeling any pressure,” stressed Jones. “They are high school kids playing a game. They have other interests outside of basketball that are more stressful than wins and losses.

“As an example, I have kids who are trying to figure out where to go to college and what to major in. The last thing I write on the board before every game is to enjoy the game.”

“The team is fighting for a top-eight spot in the EPC playoffs and a District 11 berth with six games to go.”