From The Bench: North Haven Girls Basketball

Last night I walked into the Fred Kelly gymnasium in North Haven to cover the girls basketball game between North Haven and Mercy High School. It was senior night and as I walked into the gym I could hear the sound of parents, players, coaches and the bouncing of basketballs throughout the gym. Just for a second it reminded me of the movie Rudy when Rudy's father walked into Notre Dame stadium for the first time and said “This is the most beautiful sight these eyes have ever seen!”. It really was a beautiful sight to see, Sports being played again after such a long time, fans in the stands, feeling the excitement of both teams getting ready to go on the court and just play a kids game, basketball.

In my interview via email with some of the captains I asked Captain Sarah Puzone how it feels to get back on the court and she replied, “Getting back on the court feels like a dream. My excitement and passion are extremely high as always and I am very grateful we are able to play.” Her fellow seniors, Carly Fresher, Emily Konopka and, Olivia Stefanik felt the same way.

I asked Puzone, as seniors and team leaders, what do you want to tell the underclassmen that might have a full schedule next year?'' She said. “As a senior captain, I want to tell the underclassmen to cherish every moment. Every single moment. From buzzer beater wins to sprints during practice, cherish it all. Playing every game like it’s your last is now a statement that sadly is so true. You never know what or when something can happen. Stay focused, keep your eyes on the prize, and give it your all in every practice and game. Mostly, have fun, and go take home the win!!

Captain Olivia Stefanik had similar words, “My advice to the underclassmen would be to play every game like it’s your last and leave everything on the court. I would’ve never imagined my senior year season being affected like this from covid, so just take advantage of every opportunity you have to play next season. Don’t take anything for granted!” Well said.

As for the game North Haven played hard but Mercy was just a little too much. Puzone led the scoring with 10 points, Julia Ball and Emma Leidke had 7 points and Senior Emily Konopka had 6. This team is young and well coached so never count them out, they are building off last year's momentum and setting the foundation for future teams at the same time.

Keep up the hard work ladies!!!!

Mark Curcio

From The Bench

Curcio Sports Photos