It was billed as a battle for first-place, but Rockridge was no match for the senior girls' basketball team as the Cavs fast-break ripped the Ravens apart from the opening whistle. The final result was a convincing 66-36 win for Collingwood as they took sole possession of first place in Division 1. It was a fantastic way for the team to say goodbye to its five graduating players. As usual, Coach McLaughlin put on a tremendous night for the athletes who have given so much to the girls' basketball program for the past five years. Here is Coach McLaughlin's report:
Monday night saw the Senior Cavs in their last league home game against the Rockridge Ravens. This was a pivotal game in the season as heading into the game, both teams were undefeated and the winner would be one step closer to securing a spot in the North Shore playoffs.
To add to the heightened emotions, as it was the last home game, it was also Senior's Night, where the team recognizes the contributions of the graduating players. This year, the Senior team will lose five players to graduation: Bridget Campbell, Amanda Finnie, Isabelle Gaglardi-Kreider, Jacqui Kelly, and Savin Narwal.
After thanking the players and their parents, it was time to get down to business on the court.
The first few minutes of play were close as each team settled their nerves and adjusted to their opposition, but Collingwood was well prepared for the Ravens' tendencies and looked to take advantage of mismatch opportunities and the transition game. The Cavs broke out of the gates and looked good on the fast break with different players taking off down the floor and scoring in transition. Despite being shorter at each position, Collingwood did extremely well to keep Rockridge off the boards and contain their very talented post players. At the end of the first quarter, Collingwood was ahead 24-11.
The second quarter proved similar as Collingwood worked their rotation with everyone contributing to both the offensive and defensive end. The ball movement for the Cavs was crisp and they were able to continue to connect on cuts to the hoop and some good outside shooting. Heading into the half, the Cavs pushed their lead to 41-17.
The third quarter saw Rockridge rally their troops and make a push in the opening minutes of the second half, taking full advantage of their inside game and strong drives to the hoop. However, the Cavs were able to buckle down and get back to their game plan, managing to keep the spread by outscoring Rockridge 15-11 in the third frame.
The final quarter was bitter-sweet as the Cavs saw their seniors take to the floor for their last quarter of league play. It was awesome to see all the grade 12s playing together one last time, as they were part of the resurgence Lady Cav basketball after a lack of Senior team for two years of competition. Each senior was subbed off by a junior with a hug and a standing ovation. At the end of the game, Collingwood won the day 66-36.
Post-Game, the seniors were all presented with framed action shots and a tribute speech from the younger players. It was a great way to wrap up the home league games. The Cavs are back in action again next week as they play Sentinel and Bodwell at their respective schools to complete league play.
B. Lucke (2) K. Garland (16) R. Na (6) I. Fry (4) N. Basran (2) J. Kelly (8) M. Gill (17) A. Finnie (6) I. Gaglardi-Kreider (5)
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Savin Narwal, Bridget Campbell, Izzy Gaglardi-Kreider, Jacqui Kelly and Amanda Finnie show off their framed photos with Coach Morgan McLaughlin.
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The victorious team is all smiles with their grads in the front row after the Senior's Night presentations.
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Muneet Gill and Kayleigh Garland combined for 33 points yesterday.
