Five sophomores on the men's basketball team were recently honored at Eastern Wyoming College. The sophomores; Malik Frederick, David Andrew and his brother Joseph Andrew, Ryan Swan, and Marko Krtinic are finishing their time with the Lancers this season.

The five have played a key role as team leaders and will be missed, Lancer coach Tom Andersen said.

"My years at EWC was something I'm gonna be able to tell my future kids and family about for the rest of my life," sophomore Lancer Malik Frederick said. "I have met so many people and from different cultures over the years. Coming from the city (Columbus, Ohio) to an area like this was a big change, but I like it. Everyone is very helpful and caring and I truly appreciate it."

Malik hasn't decided where he'll be continuing his academic and basketball career, but he said, "I have a few places in mind."

Like Malik, fellow sophomore David Andrew praised the college's close family like atmosphere.

"I am thankful for my time at EWC, everyone is like a big family here," David said. "I would like to thank my host family, coach Tom (Andersen), Michelle Brooks, and all of my teammates."

David will be continuing his education next year at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.

For sophomore Ryan Swan EWC "feels like a stepping stone" which has prepared him "well for where I will go in the future."

"I've really enjoyed my time here," he said. "It has been a great experience all around."

Ryan hasn't decided yet where he will be going next year to finish his bachelor degree. He said he would like to continue playing basketball and see where life takes him.

As for highlights, Malik said, "the most recent highlight was when we beat Casper at home 101-99, and my teammate, John Barbee, gave us the game winning basket. Moments like that you won't forget. The crowd was into it and it felt good to get a win before going into March Madness and our tournament."