Donnie Hale, a Class of 2011 New Albany graduate and Purdue recruit, relocated last month to North Bridgton, Maine, for a season of prep school basketball at Bridgton Academy.

Hale, who says he is “beginning to get comfortable to the prep school routine,” is focused on two things: his academics and preparing himself to play at Purdue.

“Being out here with minimum distractions and at an all-guy school, there’s not much to distract you from your focus,” he said. “Things here are very organized; we’re always in study hall and working on study habits to prepare us for college.”

Bridgton, which is renowned for its top-flight basketball program, can begin team practices Oct. 1.

“We have a lot of talent,” Hale said. “We have a few guards that really know what they’re doing, some shooters that can flat knock it down from everywhere and a big buy from Brazil with great footwork. I’m not the only big guy, so I’m excited about the chance to play out on the floor a bit more.”

Purdue assistant coach Paul Lusk visited the Bridgton last week, Hale said.

“We had a good time, good conversation. I setup another official visit to Purdue on Oct. 15, so I get to enjoy another one of those. The reason I’m up here is to prepare myself for Purdue; I’m here for them and that’s who I’m sticking with.”