The start of the 2016-2017 Utica boys basketball season begins without a familiar face. Gerry Kraemer, who has been the head coach for the boys basketball team, recently retired after 17 years of coaching. Kraemer has left an excelling legacy with a district championship and a mac-white championship.

“Every team has something special about them,” Kraemer said, “no matter the record. I will miss being in charge of the program, the kids, and the competition.”

Kraemer was known for his competitiveness and his will to win.

“He always pushed everyone to their limits,” senior Zack Arafat said, “and had an incredible competitive edge.”

His edge led to 10 winning seasons and championships.

More importantly, Kraemer was more than just a coach. Players said he coached them more off the court, than on.

“He’s a father figure, a mentor off the court,” Omaure Miller said. “He was a coach in life, and taught us more than basketball.”

Coach Kraemer was a great coach of both basketball and life skills. His players respected him and worked hard for him.

“He was very competitive,” successor Dave Hinkle said, “and he makes everyone work hard.”

Kraemer hasn’t left the court completely, however. He’s accepted a job as the new assistant coach for the varsity girls team.