The casual fan will see number 21 on the basketball court at a Division Varsity game, but they won't see him scoring on any dunks or long range three point shots, but to coaches, teammates, opponents and informed fans, that number belongs to George Roesemann who does all the little things that just help a team play its best.

At 5'11, Roesemann is often overmatched by bigger players, but he still is a solid rebounder. He frequently finds himself defending quicker players, but he's a hard working defensive player. When a loose ball is on the floor, you know Roesemann will be going after it. He's not hesitant to set a screen, allowing a teammate to get an open shot. These things don't often appear in the papers, but they are the type of things that help teams win.

"I don't mind doing the dirty work," exclaims Roesemann, "because it's necessary to win and I know my teammates appreciate my effort.

"Everyone has a roll," continued Roesemann, "and having everyone perform at their best will contribute to the success of the team."

He wasn't playing much last year, until illness and foul trouble gave him an opportunity against Glen Cove. Although he did score five points in the game, it was his rebounding, screening and defense that increased his playing time for the rest of the season.

"Even when I wasn't playing much, I kept working hard because I believed that it would be rewarded in the end," says Roesemann.

His hard work has paid off in school also, where he maintains a 94.3 average. Roesemann has been active with the photography club and last year with the Model Congress. This past spring his three man team came in first in the Newsday stock market game. He enjoyed the experience so much that he has decided to major in business next year. He'd like to continue in the stock market after getting his degree. He has already been accepted to Adelphi, Molloy and C.W. Post and is awaiting word from Hofstra before making his final decision.

Basketball has played a big part of Roesemann's life, having been a Blue Dragon for four years. He has also been very involved in the program at St. Bernard's.

Through basketball he and other members of the basketball program had the opportunity to play and visit with members of a team from the Oure School from Denmark. He was particularly fascinated at how much the Danish players knew about America and American basketball. The members of the Danish team spent a day in school with the Division players, played that evening and spent the night at the homes of the Blue Dragon players.

"I was amazed at how much they knew about the NBA and how they were familiar with ESPN," stated Roesemann. "They knew a great deal about us, and we learned a great deal about them. It was really a great experience."

He may not be a very vocal leader but Roesemann is a "leader by example," says Junior Varsity Coach Chris Aiello. This was apparent when Roesemann and Dan Cronin were selected as co-captains by acclimation.

"It really made me feel good to see that everyone was so supportive," said Roesemann. "In spite of being a small team, we have a cohesiveness that can be seen on the court. We just enjoy playing together," claims Roesemann.

"I see George every day, and he always gives 110 percent on the court, whether it's in a game or in practice, even when he's hurt," says Cronin.

His individual goal of helping the Blue Dragon hoopsters get into the playoffs and win at least one game is another indication of Roesemann selflessness.

"George follows a tradition of hard working players who make personal sacrifices for the benefit of the team," says Coach Don Mackay. "With his work ethnic and understanding of teamwork, he's sure to continue his success in his personal and professional life."