Hold the balloons for Trenton hoops party
Most country western films almost always included a plot where good guys would head someone off at the pass.
In this case, the intention hopes to prevent some wellminded people from heading down a wrong road. Stop plans for a major celebration of the Trenton Central High School boys basketball team, please.
Yes, Coach Darryl “Pup” Young and his Tornadoes delivered a fantastic season, including a NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV sectional title. No, they did not capture a state championship which should mean no big party, no parade and for heaven’s sake — no rings.
This squad received more media coverage than any other Mercer County team, devoured more free food, appeared in more photos and captivated most audiences. If you like big buts, here’s one large realization — but it did not win the elusive championship, did not end a 62-year drought.
“The season is over,” said one person affiliated with the Trenton High team. “I don’t know what the celebration would be for. They had a good season, won the Central Jersey Group IV title and set a new record for victories (292) in a season. (Here comes that big but.) But they did not win the state championship,” he said.
“Many people want to honor this team but they didn’t show up to watch them all season. Did not attend one game and now have become our biggest fans. When politicians get involved, it’s usually about photo ops.”
Second place in a softening society that presses everyone plays and receives a trophy sounds like the beginning of the end for competitive sports. Perhaps such an agenda should exist with youth, but by high school an understanding must be reached about the significant difference between first and second place.
The young men on the Trenton Central High School basketball team practiced, suited up and played for one goal — a Group IV state championship. Nottingham High School boys hoops in Group III team did the same and lost in the state final. Ewing High School girls team accomplished that goal in a grueling showdown against Randolph High.
If anyone earned a super party, it’s the Group III state champion Blue Devils who played almost an entire quarter without their star point guard, then claimed victory. State champions? Wow!
In 1989, Trenton High’s boys squad won 27 straight games then met Elizabeth for the Group IV state championship. That team finished 27-1 but failed to deliver the championship. No party. No political posturing. No perfect performance.
The proposed sports celebration apparently includes accolades for the Tornadoes indoor track squad which produced a successful season.
Hopefully, this column halts an extravagance, heads organizers off at the pass. Invite the teams to City Council and offer thanks. And, don’t forget the cheerleaders.
Just a major thank you here for a fun-filled season. Wait until next year!