Who would have thought a year ago we would be back at Boston's TD Garden for our own version of March Madness, i.e., the quest for the MIAA Division I South Championship?What a magical, miraculous run it's been for both the boys' and girls' basketball teams this season. The boys' squad had an amazing 23-2 record (a perfect 12-0 in the Hockomock League) and went into the MIAA Tournament as the #1 seed. The girls' team had a historic season, going 24-1 (also perfect for its Hockomock League schedule, 13-0) and was the #2 seed.
As almost as a twist of fate.... or perhaps symmetry, this year's results were the opposite of last year's: the girls lost to the top-seeded New Bedford, 47-68 and the boys beat #7 Newton North, 48-46. Both championship games were very tight as both featured great play and several lead changes. Everyone saw very exciting games!
The boys will go on to face St. John's Prep, the Division I North champs, this Tuesday night at 7:45 pm in the Garden. To be sure, it will be a tough game. The winner will play the Western MA/Central MA game winner on Saturday at the DCU Center in Worcester for the sole state championship.
I am very happy for both of these programs. Coaches Mike Redding and Mike Vaughan and their staffs have done a remarkable job being first and foremost teachers, and setting the right tone for these great teams. Most importantly, this group of young women and men are great examples for students of all age in our community: they are fine students with great attitudes, have consistently demonstrated good sportsmanship, and have represented MHS with class both on and off the court. Congratulations!
If you are part of the half of Mansfield that wasn't at the Garden Friday night (This town travels remarkably well!), here are highlights of both games courtesy of the MHS alum/Sun-Chronicle sports writer Mark Farinella. Enjoy!
Last Friday was one for the ages! Both the boys' and girls' basketball teams made it to the MIAA Division I South finals, and thus had the chance to win the championship on the parquet floor of the TD Garden in Boston. What a remarkable experience!
The boys' team (the #3 seed) faced off against a very tough Madison Park (the #1 seed). The Hornets hung tough through the first quarter, but in the second quarter Madison Park pulled away with a great deal of speed and tight defense. The Hornets ended up losing 72-60, ending a historical season that saw them winning the Hockomock League championship for the first time in 50 years while posting an outstanding 21-3 record. Phenomenal!
Over 3000 tickets were sold to Mansfield High School students, parents, and community members. Both teams are such a strong source of joy and pride in our community, and should be congratulated for terrific and historical seasons. In my view, they were both winners on Friday... Go Hornets!
