The Goshen Eagles open a new chapter of their program’s history Thursday afternoon.

After months of anticipation, the Eagles will finally get a chance to play a game inside their new nest.

Goshen will play host to 16 basketball teams over the next three days in the second annual Goshen Holiday Tournament.

Eagles head coach Johnny Mitchell said he and the players are ready to break in the new gym.

“We practiced over there a couple of times, but the kids are really excited about playing a game in there,” Mitchell said. “It was like Christmas morning for us last week. We didn’t get a whole lot done that day.”

The Eagles welcome in boys and girls teams from Pike County, Geneva, Highland Home, Samson, G.W. Long, New Brockton and Zion Chapel.

Goshen has stumbled recently, losing three-straight games, after winning its first two contests of the seasons.

Mitchell feels the tournament could be a good opportunity for his teams, both boys and girls, to turn their seasons around and get back on the winning track.

“The boys side we are a little beat up with injuries right now,” Mitchell said. “Chub (Deangelo Orum) is about 70 percent on his knee right now, and we have had some guys miss with the flu and other stuff. It is one of the roughest openings to a season I have ever had as far as injuries go.”

Mitchell also serves as head coach of the girl’s team, which opens the tournament at 3:30 p.m. Thursday against G.W. Long.

“The girls are still learning everyday,” Mitchell said. “They will see some very good competition this weekend with teams like Zion Chapel and Samson and G.W. Long. They will have to play tough and smart all game long.”

The Goshen boys will play the nightcap of the tournament’s first day. The Eagles will meet G.W. Long at 8 P.m.