After being snowed out for their first two home games, the varsity basketball team traveled to Washington Montessori on Wednesday afternoon for their long awaited opening game. As if the team hadn’t had enough delays, a bus scheduling problem almost left this game in jeopardy. Special thanks to parents Mitzi Stamer and Ron Wilson for driving the team to our game. Also, thanks to Nigel Pink and Eileen Shaw for their help with contacting parents and securing permission to drive our personal vehicles to the game. The team did not want to miss another opportunity to play.
The team got off to a sluggish start but managed to stay ahead throughout the first half. Everyone was trying to shake off those first game jitters. As the team ran their plays and started to gain a little confidence, things started to fall into place. The first half ended with DDS up by 3 points. A very different DDS team emerged for the second half, more focused and ready to prove they were not satisfied with their first half performance. The seesaw battle continued, but DDS was playing with a fire and focus that was missing in the first half. The energy level was very contagious. Even the players on the bench were cheering and encouraging their teammates. Tri-captains Griffin, Hudson, and Adam anchored both the offensive flow of the game and played some very tough defense. These three team leaders combined for a total of 31 points and each provided the spark that we needed at just the right time. When our man-to-man coverage was allowing too many easy layups, we switched to our tight 2-3 zone defense, clogging up the middle, and causing the WMS players to have to work very hard for their shots. Danielle and Christian were especially tenacious on defense with both causing numerous jump balls and possession opportunities. Christian scored his first varsity basket with a great pass from Griffin. Roan and Shriman were quite active on defense and positioned themselves for some great rebounds, leading to many excellent fast break opportunities. Shriman accounted for our other basket. Overall, it was a great start for our team.
Our kids learned the value of not only being physically prepared for every game, but mentally prepared as well. They also know that WMS has some very good athletes, but our desire, determination, and will were the difference that sealed the victory for us. After the team enjoys their holiday break, they know we have just one practice to prepare for perennial powerhouse, Rumsey on Wednesday, January 9, 2008 at home. We hope you will be able to come and cheer for our team. Happy Holidays from the basketball coaches and players to the entire DDS community.
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