Staying true to the mantra of “Hard Work” has paid off for the 6th grade girls basketball team of Holy Name of Jesus Parish. March Madness came early to this team as they battled it out against St Josephs of Pelham for the 2012/13 CYO 6th grade C1 division championship. The final, played at Iona College, was a nonstop thriller that ended with a final score off 21-19. With less than a minute to play in the fourth period, the Hawks pulled ahead by two on a sweet layup that sealed the final score. St Josephs wasn’t giving up without a fight. In the final 15 seconds St Joseph forced a turnover that led to a 1 on 1 fast break that looked like it would tie the game, but in this game, on this day, on this court, it was Holy Name’s turn at the top as the fast break was broken up with 1.2 seconds left. Holy Name took possession under the St Jo’s board and tossed a long pass downcourt to burn what was left of on the clock. The breathless crowd erupted in cheers as the realization of what these girls accomplished sunk in.
This was “that” game that nobody deserved to lose, but someone had to win. Closing the 11-2 season with the championship trophy was the culmination of their season of “Hard Work”. Congratulations ladies, you truly are Champions. Hats off to the coaches, parents and of course, The Holy Name of Jesus Parish who made the season a blast!
