“FULL COURT PRESS”

Book Eight in the

ERIC LEWIS BOOK SERIES

by the coach

Thomas Smythe

Art by Pete O’Brien

DEDICATION

During my sophomore year in high school I played on the varsity basketball team under coach Bob Edwards. He had replaced a popular man and his coaching methods were in direct contrast with the former coach. The seniors on the team rebelled and the result was a disaster of a season. Coach Edwards was there only that one season before moving to the Sacramento area where he had a long and successful career and became a coaching legend.

I learned a lot from him about how to handle adversity and how to forge ahead when others want to remain static. We stayed in touch and he came to say ‘Goodbye’ a month before he died of cancer. Bob Edwards was a very good man and I dedicate this book to him.

CONTENTS

1 AIN’T NO GOOD GOODBYE, Billy Ray Cyrus

2 CAPTAIN JACK, Billy Joel

3 THE AIR THAT I BREATHE, Julio Iglesias & the Beach Boys

4 I KNOW A WALL WHEN I SEE ONE, Toby Keith

5 FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS, Neil Diamond

6 COOL THING, Rascal Flats

7 BIRD DOG, The Everly Brothers

8 BLUES MAN, Alan Jackson

9 BOTTOM OF MY HEART, Toby Keith

10 NOWHERE TO RUN, Martha Reeves

11 FLAWS, Alan Jackson

12 PHOTOGRAPHS & MEMORIES, Jim Croce

13 HERE IN THE REAL WORLD, Alan Jackson

14 JOB DESCRIPTION, Alan Jackson

15 FAST MOVIN’ TRAIN, Restless Heart

16 PRESSURE, Billy Joel

17 LITTLE BITTY, Alan Jackson

18 ALL NIGHT TO GET THERE, Rascal Flats

EPILOGUE CRYIN’ TIME, Julio Iglesias

ONE

“AIN’T NO GOOD GOODBYE”

BILLY RAY CYRUS

I

It was a long ride home from the state championship game, turned short by our huge victory. As we approached the town I just couldn’t stop the memories from flooding my brain. Another State Title was ours and I held the championship trophy to prove it. I thought of the many trips home from victories on the field, the court or the diamond and couldn’t keep from smiling. This sport ride for me was winding down, two more seasons to go and my high school career would be history. Moving on is part of life, but I wanted to be sure and savor every moment and I reminded myself, “Never forget the people that helped make this all possible”. And as I thought about that I said in a low voice to myself,

“There ain’t no good goodbye.”

Good thing the bus driver understood how boisterous teenage boys could be when celebrating a victory. Coach had to quiet us once or twice but he didn’t do it with a lot of sternness in his voice, more noticeable was the smile on his face. He had to be one very proud man but he would be the last to gloat. His accomplishments in the coaching world would be forever forged in stone and I just thanked God I was able to be a part of his legacy.

By the time the team bus pulled in to the Crater parking lot there was almost no room for the bus. It looked to me like most of the town was there, and the enthusiasm never waivered. We stepped off the bus, one by one, and the cheers just kept coming. The four captains were the last to descend the steps and if there had been a decibel meter close by it would have never made it through to the end.

There was a makeshift podium which the team assembled behind and Coach Vince gave the kind of talk we were used to hearing, but my guess is most of the people in attendance had no idea his oratory skill was equal to his coaching talent. The man had the group in his spell and you could tell he was enjoying the moment.

He gave credit to his coaching staff first and then spent time congratulating the senior class for three years of effort. By the end there wasn’t a dry eye on the team or in the audience. If you haven’t played on a team you would have no idea how much emotion can be involved. For us it was the culmination of three years of blood, sweat and tears. It was also three years of laughs, smiles and enjoyment. Coach Vince is right on when he says, “You can’t replace the feeling you get by doing a hard job well.” We had faced the challenge of a hard job, and yes, we did it well.

By the time we met with family and friends and stored our equipment for the last time it was approaching dinner time, and I for one was famished. My family was enjoying the moment of course and mom had Cezar in a mom/son embrace that nearly brought a tear to my eye. I know my Croatian buddy wished his mom and dad had been here to witness our victory, but I knew our family was a pretty good substitute.

“You guys enjoy the night and remember we’ll have a victory cake waiting when you get home. Don’t make it too late.” Mom said that last bit with a smirk on her face but I knew she was dead serious.

“I’ll leave some room for chocolate mom,” I said as I headed into the building with my teammates.

As we came out of the locker room Luke said, “Round up time at the Doorway guys. Last man there buys the drinks.”

Luke had a quality of leadership that would take him far in real life, and none of his good friends doubted that for a second. He was super confident without being obnoxious, and had a sense of saying the right thing at the right time. Playing three sports with my sidekick was the frosting on the Crater cake for me. Lucky guy.

The entire group was already crowding the Doorway’s limit and there were quite a few standing as all the tables, booths and stools were occupied. The staff was hustling around trying to fill orders and falling a bit short, but no one really cared.

I told the waitress, “The usual,” and she just smiled and wrote down burger and fries. J. R. had come along and he looked either bemused or confused depending on which moment you glanced in his direction.

“Eric, I thought we had a rowdy bunch down in Dixie, but we couldn’t hold a candle to this group.”

I just smiled, held up my coke and said, “Let’s see if we can bring the same kind of camaraderie to Husker land my friend.”

It wasn’t long before Val was tugging on my shirt, but it was so loud I couldn’t quite make out what she was saying.

Finally she stood on tip toes and whispered in my ear, “Aren’t you going to give your prom date a championship kiss?”

Neither of us had a ‘steady’ or in my case even a non-steady and we had agreed long ago to be a couple at the senior prom. Of course I couldn’t stop thinking why the devil hasn’t someone latched on to this diamond?

I held my friend up and suddenly it got very quiet. We both looked around smiling, and then I planted a kiss squarely on Val’s lips and the place suddenly sounded like our rooting section after a score. We both laughed and hugged again. I gave my friend a wink and the smile I got in return told me everything I needed to know. We would be life long friends.

II

We had heard rumors that two key defensive linemen for Xavier were injured and wouldn’t play. They didn’t. In the game of football often times the backup players are nearly the most important. Injuries occur and the good teams fill in with players nearly of the caliber of the starters.

During my three years playing varsity sports here at Crater we’ve been pretty fortunate. I guess the most we’ve been hurt by missing talent was when Luke was suspended for the feral cat incident during basketball. But we’ve pretty much dodged that bullet most of the time.

Luke and Randy missed some series in our final but were both able to return and play significant minutes. Fortunately for us Dom and Dustin stepped in without us missing a beat. Maybe even more important is that the reserve players mentally prepare as though they were starters and when opportunity comes take advantage. That type attitude works for those teams that win. Losers don’t get it.

I spent Sunday watching the NFL games and fielding phone calls from friends and relatives. I love sharing our success on the athletic arena although I’ve always been pretty good at keeping sports in perspective. That’s something all of our coaches here have drilled into me and my teammates as well. We might be good athletes, but we should never feel entitled or above those non-athletes I see every day in the halls and in my classrooms.

Monday was sort of a celebration and a culmination day rolled into one. We accepted the State Championship trophy at a morning pep assembly, and it put a closure on the season. Well sort of, I spent most of the day accepting congratulations from fellow students and faculty.

Leave it to Miss Murtry to help with the perspective point of view.

“Ok Eric let me be the last to tell you how great you are and then let’s move on to figuring out how you can score enough points on the English SAT to make it in to Harvard.”

That brought some chuckles from my classmates but the quick stern look Scully gave us got our attention and we dove into the lesson of the day. She was awesome and every student in her classes understood how prepared we would be for the next academic level because of her.

When I saw Luke at lunch he had his right arm in a sling of sorts protecting his injured shoulder and that caught my attention.

“Wow, how long will you be wearing that gismo?”

“I woke up yesterday with the darn shoulder joint throbbing and it didn’t get any better. So, last night dad took me to the emergency room at the hospital and they did x-rays and also took an MRI. I won’t get the results of the MRI until later today but the x-ray didn’t show any break.”

I gave him a quizzical look and then offered, “Looks like you’ll need to learn how to shoot with the left hand buddy.”

He just gave me a left handed look with a Luke only smirk on his face. I just rolled my eyes and headed for the lunch line.

It looked like either Blake Denton or Jimmy Prather would be getting a lot of minutes at the point guard position beginning tonight at hoops practice.

Because the football season went into the first week of basketball we would shuck the pads and hitch up the shorts for a contest on Friday night. No rest for the weary.

TWO

“CAPTAIN JACK”

BILLY JOEL

I

I felt out of sync for the first few drills at basketball practice. But I knew my teenage body would adjust quickly to the indoor arena with bouncing balls, shuffling feet and dripping sweat on the hardwood floor. I had played this game for so long it was hard to realize this might be the last hoops team I would be part of. I wanted to make it a special year and I think our team felt the same.

Coach Edwards and his assistant’s were, as usual, running a precise practice schedule. Everyone knew where to line up as each drill proceeded. Twenty minutes hadn’t gone by before I started to feel comfortable. I looked around at my teammates and thought this was going to be a bit different. Gone were the twins, Toby and Thomas, and in their place were the two Ryan’s, Ruff and Schmid. They were almost as tall as the twins, at 6’4, and I didn’t think there would be much of a drop off, if any. They were both better scoring threats if lacking a bit in the defense and rebound category.

I was anxious to get a good look at Smity, as everyone calls him, as he was new to the hoops team and school. But after a season of football together I knew how big his heart was and he’s said from the get go the basketball was his favorite sport. His goal is to one day become a coach but that was the future and this was now. It didn’t take long at all.

He would be a good one without a doubt.

We had lost some quality players as usual. Gone along with the twins, were back up post players Joel Schmid and Mike Smithy. We would need to find solid replacements for sure. And our three-point shooter Scott Peters had graduated as well. We had seven returning players from last years State Championship team to build around, and Tommy Keck has returned to hoops after missing last year with mono.

He is almost 6’4 and can play either forward position as well as some minutes in the backcourt at shooting guard.

Blake Denton would back up Luke, while Jimmy Prather would be behind me. Tommy would be solid as a forward replacement as well.

That meant we needed to develop a solid back up post for Robby and another ‘big’ as well. Right now I counted eight solid and experienced players but we were woefully short in experience down low with our post players.

The good news is there is some excellent potential with our group of sophomore players. Of course Ryan Ruff moved up from the frosh team at mid-season last year and proved himself to be more than capable. He would only be better now that he’s matured a bit.

Ryan Schmid’s brother Matt is an addition to our sophomore class and he’s 6’3 but very immature. My guess is by mid season he’ll be hard to keep off the varsity team. By next year he’ll have grown and matured enough to be a very good varsity player. He’ll begin by playing on the JV

squad.

The other bright light in that class is Brandon Loy. He’s almost 6’5

and talented. He had a great summer league season and coach thinks he might be ready for at least some quality minutes come league season.

As I watched I couldn’t help but notice that between Matt, Brandon and Tommy there wasn’t a face that needed shaving. I just chuckled remembering the ‘puberty’ chant I heard during my sophomore season.

It must be something in the water here in Crater than makes most of us physically late bloomers.

I’ve noticed that primarily all our athletes are light skinned, blond and look younger than we are. Contrast that with, for example, the kids from North Marian, who seem to all be dark haired, heavy bearded youth.

It’s sort of like the boys versus the men when we line up. But our record against them is very one sided in our favor. I guess reaching puberty early is over rated.

Luke was sitting out with his arm still in the sling and he told me how worried he was about what the MRI might tell him.

“I’ll see the doc at five and I’m holding my breath.”

“Just be sure to call as soon as you can. I’ll be praying for good news buddy.”

I knew Blake would be our point guard this Friday and probably for a while longer. He’s a proven player though, after a sophomore season playing a lot of quality minutes. But we needed Luke’s talent as well as his leadership. He’s sort of the glue that keeps the squad together. And

if Blake needed a breather both Jimmy and I could play point if push came to shove.

We finished the practice with a slow down, walk and talk team session. Coach didn’t waste any time inserting the football guys into the rotation. And an outside observer would be impressed with how we looked as the starters took the court. Tall and athletic would be for sure the description anyone would offer. Robby was 6’7, I was 6’5, both Ryan’s were 6’4 and Blake was 6’1. Four football players in the starting lineup, and it would remain four when Luke was healthy, although he would be the runt of the litter at 5’10.

I got Luke’s call shortly after dinner and it wasn’t all bad news. The doctor told him he had a partial tear in the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint and it would be two weeks before he would be cleared to play. Two weeks wasn’t so long a time and knowing Luke he would use the sideline time to improve his left handed dribble and shot.

Our first game was against Capitol High of Omaha, the same team we opened against last year, only this time it was at their gym. Omaha wasn’t that far away so my guess was we’d have a nice rooting section following us. Coming off a state title in football and used to cheering on winners I hoped our late start wouldn’t change that ending. But Capitol was a solid program and it would certainly be a good test.

II

I was walking towards my first period class when I glanced into the counseling offices and noticed a tall kid I knew. He was a two-sport athlete at St. Christopher Prep, although he lived in our district. He caught my eye and motioned for me to join him.

“How you doing Jack,” I asked as I entered the office area.

“Doing great thanks,” he said while offering his hand.

“I have to ask, what are you doing here at our little school?”

“Well, after some sole searching and a late night discussion with my parents, I’ve decided to transfer and become a Comet.”

I was shocked, to say the least. Jack was a defense end in football and a good one. He made first team All-League and was considering a number of division II colleges to continue his football career. And, he was a pretty good center in basketball. At 6’5 he was a presence in the lane for the Crusaders. He wasn’t a scorer but a fierce defensive player

and rebounder. Oh my, he would be a valuable addition to our squad without a doubt.

“Have you spoken with coach Edwards yet”, I asked?

“Nope, I need to make this official first. But it looks like I’ll have him for math second period. Think he’ll be surprised when I walk in to the room?”

“Now that would be an understatement of epic proportion.”

I knew that it wouldn’t be long before the rumor mill began rolling through the Crater High hallways and I couldn’t keep the smile off my face.

“Welcome to Comet land Jack, the Bryant family will find out pretty fast how close we are here, especially with our athletic teams. But it’s a great atmosphere as you’ll quickly find out. See you at practice if not before.”

We just became a two deep hoops squad with ten guys who could all play. We now had a quality back up post and knowing coach Edwards as well as I do I know he’d find a way to play both Robby and Jack at the same time now and then. Maybe he would put in some of the double post alignment we’ve done so much of in the past. I nearly flew down the hall to my speech class and for just a moment I knew something no one else on our team did. Look out Iowa, here come the Comets…again!

By the time practice rolled around everyone had heard the news and before we got under way coach introduced our newest member and welcomed him to the team.

“Jack, we’re all excited to see you wearing Comet blue. Welcome to our family.”

To no one’s surprise Jack was complimentary in his response.

“I’ve been envious of your sports program for a long time coach. I just hope I’ll be able to contribute.”

He paused before continuing, “My goal is to become part of the team as fast as possible and I want you to know I’ll play any role coach decides is best. I’m not hung up on starting or on number of minutes, I just want to be a member of this team that all of you can count on.”

I’ve known Jack for a long time. The Bryant family doesn’t live far from us and when he chose to attend Prep we were all disappointed.

But, there never was any bad blood. They were a strong catholic family and it would have been a surprise if he had not chosen to go to Prep.

I knew sooner or later he would confide in me as to why the sudden change but I was in no hurry to hear the story. I’m just glad to have him as a teammate and so were ten other hoops players here at Crater.

Practice went well as usual and everyone seemed to have a new bounce in their step. Jack fit right in and showed everyone he would be more than a welcome addition; he would prove to be a force down the road without a doubt.

By the time the practice ended we had all worked up a good sweat and the shower was a welcome relief. I couldn’t help but notice how much our team had matured with one quick addition. I think Jack must have to shave twice a day. That’s a ritual most of the rest of us manage twice a month. As I exited coach E motioned for me to come over.

“Eric, be sure you guys make Jack welcome a.s.a.p. We just might have won the lottery today. Jack could be the last piece of the puzzle you know.”

“Coach, we’ve already begun that process. We gave captain Jack the shower room razz. “You know,” I said with a wink, “Naked teenagers lying to each other.”

“I don’t want to know son.”

THREE

“THE AIR THAT I BREATHE”

JULIO IGLESIAS & THE BEACH BOYS

I

Thursday practice, as usual, was shorter than most as coach E

believed in having fresh legs for game night. This was pretty routine and the only full speed drill was going over our full court press. It had been a big part of our success story over the last two seasons and with our tall, long armed and athletic group it should be again.

We were about five minutes into it and our JV squad was having a very difficult time attempting to beat the press of the varsity group. We had the ball trapped in a corner when the young ball handler attempted an ill advised pass up court. Blake playing in the middle of the 1-3-1

zone flew towards the ball with his usual reckless abandonment looking for the intercept. At the last moment the JV player receiving the pass broke back towards Blake and the ensuing collision could be heard throughout the gymnasium.

Blake was on the floor in an awkward position in obvious pain. Our trainer Pete Rock rushed towards him along with members of the varsity team. The JV player was holding his arm at a funny looking angle and it was obvious to everyone both players would need attention.

After speaking with Blake, Pete asked for someone to get him an ice pack, told him to stay down and still. Then he lent his attention to the other player. After a brief look he had the frightened youngster escorted to the training room.

In the mean time our back up and game one starting point guard, while Luke recovered from his shoulder injury, looked in no way comfortable. Blake was still on the ground with a look of pain on his face. Finally with some help from both Ryan’s Pete got him up and carried to the training room.

Coach called a halt to the action on the court, calling for a five minute break. The mood on the team was somber to voice the obvious.

When we began again it was mostly a ‘walk-thru’ as coach realigned our positions. If Blake wasn’t ready to go Jimmy would move into the starting lineup, and take Blake’s spot in the press.

By the time practice ended Blake was gone as Pete had taken him to the emergency room. That wasn’t good news at all. I could tell the coaching staff was very concerned as they were all huddled in coach Edwards office. No one had a happy face.

“How did practice go”, mom asked as we sat down for dinner.

“Don’t ask”, I replied and everyone looked at me wanting an instant explanation.

I spent the next ten minutes talking about our decreasing squad size while trying to set the land speed record for cleaning my plate of mom’s pasta of the day.

“Who’s going to play the point,” asked Paul.

And before I could answer Danny said, “That’s easy, Eric will.”

That possibility had crossed my mind. I know, and so does our coaching staff, Jimmy could certainly do it, but he might be more relaxed playing the ‘off’ guard position. My bet is I’ll know the answer to that question before second period rolls around tomorrow.

It didn’t take that long. As I walked into school Friday morning Jimmy and his father were just arriving.

“Ready for some point guard action,” said coach Prather. It was more of a statement than a question.

“Sure coach,” and turning to Jimmy I said, “Get ready to shoot a lot buddy. Seriously, just relax you’ve been getting primed for the spotlight your entire life.”

His smile told me a lot. He wasn’t much of a talker, takes after his father I think. But the kid is whip smart and a good athlete. He’ll be fine.

We boarded the bus for the hour drive to Omaha. Blake wasn’t with us and that was very concerning. I asked Pete what was going on and all he could say was the injury was in the groin area. He just hoped it was a strain and not a tear. He went on to explain it could be pretty serious if the muscle that extends from the pubic bone to the inside of the thigh is seriously injured. A tear or rupture could leave Blake on the sideline for weeks. That’s not the kind of news we need. Hopefully it will be just a strain and he’ll be back with us before too long.

The talk on the bus ride was mostly about Luke and Blake’s injuries. We had been pretty lucky with that over my high school time. I just hoped our good luck would hold on for about six more months.

We were down to Jimmy and me for the guard positions so coach Edwards has a couple options. Tommy Keck would probably be the first sub for either me or Jimmy. He would play the ‘off’ or ‘shooting’ guard

spot and Jimmy or I would be the point. Coach has also brought up a player from the JV team to fill in.

The youngster’s name is Joel Linger. He is a quiet kid who also played football as a wide receiver. Everyone thought by his senior season he’d be a force. Now he’s a skinny 6’4 junior, a lot like I was at that age. But he’s growing like a weed so will probably end up being another 6’5 Crater athlete. My feeling was as soon as he gained confidence the sky was his limit. We welcomed him of course. Everyone liked Joel and we were all in his corner tonight.

The JV team plays the exact same system that we play on the varsity so it wouldn’t be an issue with knowing what to do or where to go, though It might be an execution issue. We’ll see. One thing is for sure everyone will make Joel feel at home. It’s what winners do.

II

Blake and his family were already there when we walked into the gym. Everyone wanted to hear the doctor’s diagnosis so he was quickly surrounded by concerned teammates.

“Doc says two weeks if I don’t do anything stupid.”

“Did he say it was a strain,” I asked?

“Well, it was not a tear and I was very relieved to hear that. He wants me to spend a lot of time on the couch with an ice pack. I like the couch part but I’m not so sure about the ice.

Then with a grin he said, “I don’t need anything to shrivel my manhood.”

That brought closure to the group as we all headed into the locker room with a smile on our faces.

The gym was nearly full when we came out for warm ups and the home pep band was giving a good account of itself. Both teams had a bounce in their steps as we hustled through our pregame ritual. By the time the horn sounded to assemble for the starting lineup announcements I had worked up a pretty good sweat.

Coach Edwards and Coach Papp were chatting near the score table. You could tell there was a lot of mutual respect. The Eagles coach had been in place at Capitol for years and built a solid program.

He had also been an excellent small college player with a scoring average over twenty points per game. No wonder he liked the up tempo style.

They had a good looking bunch of athletes wearing their home white and after seeing them up close last year to open our season we knew they would be a formable opponent.

They had three ‘feature’ players, all three-year starters. Eldon Johns was their center and he was a six-four athlete than could both run and shoot. Ernie Turnbridge was what amounts to a shooting guard; anyway regardless of the terminology he could shoot the ball. And the guy who set everyone up was their point guard Jim Hurley. He reminded me a lot of Luke.

Coach Edwards reminded us to be ready for their fast pace and not to lose our defensive toughness. We needed to pick up their guards quickly and keep the fast break opportunities to a minimum. But we liked to run as well so the pace promised to be fast.

It didn’t take long to get into the flow as both teams passed the ball up court quickly. There were few opportunities to set up our half court offense as most of the time we got excellent looks off the break. By the end of the quarter the home team nursed a 26 to 25 lead. It looked like it would be a game long barnburner.

Just before the half ended our luck took another wrong turn. On a contested rebound Robby and their talented center collided and both players went down. The square shouldered Capitol High big man bounced back up pretty quickly but Robby needed to be assisted to our bench.

Holly cow, talk about facing adversity. There was only a minute left in the half and Jack, who had played part of the first quarter was back on the floor. We took the ball out under the basket and worked the clock down with some crisp passing and movement. With time running out I threaded a pass inside to Jack coming off a Ruff screen and he hit the runner off the glass for two points as the halftime horn sounded. We trooped into the locker room up by one at 48-47.

Pete was working feverishly on Robby’s ankle as we sat to listen to coach E. He liked our transition game and urged us to buckle down on defense. Then he touched on what would probably need to be a rotation adjustment if Robby was out. Ryan Schmid would take some minutes in the post giving Jack some time to rest and either Brandon or Tommy would fill the forward spot. This meant Joel might need to be ready for some action. It looked like we would need to play a makeshift lineup part of the time so coach urged us to stay the course and in character.

Meaning next man up be ready to play at a high level.

If you were a fan you would have loved this game. Both teams put on a mid-season type performance. It was back and fourth and up and back at breakneck speed. At the end of the third quarter it was still a one point game as we retained our lead. The hot shooting had cooled some but the score of 68-67 still showed this game wasn’t going to slow to a trot.

Our scoring had been pretty evenly distributed. Robby had ten in his first half performance and four other players were in double figures. I got a hot hand in the third, hitting three three’s and three more two’s for a fifteen point quarter. But I was feeling the tempo of the game for sure and I think coach noticed because he sat me to start the fourth. I didn’t complain. The air that I breathe was fast becoming difficult to gulp.

The home team nosed ahead again and the pace didn’t slow. By mid quarter after Joel hit an uncontested three, off the bench, we led by two at 83-81. I had reentered after a two minute break and felt fresh again. Jack made a great block and retrieved the ball before it went out of bounds. He then fired a long outlet pass that Jimmy converted into two more points with a lay-in. The clock read 2:47 and we held on to a four point lead.

But then their big center hit a turn around jumper and was fouled on the play. It was Ryan Schmid’s fifth foul. Brandon hustled into the game to take his place. After the free throw the margin was once again one point in our favor. The clock read 1:56.

Ruff was the only starter on the front line and with me at the point we essentially had four subs in the game. My teammates didn’t play like second fiddle athletes and we stayed tough down the stretch. We matched baskets twice and then with :24 seconds on the clock they had possession, trailed by one and called their last time out.

“The thing we need to do is pressure the ball first. Then you big guys front if you can, we need to deny the easy inside pass. They’ll leave some time on the clock after they shoot so let’s be ready to finish the game.”

Coach was right they couldn’t get the ball to their post but after their point guard banked in an off balance fifteen footer from the free throw line extended they led by one at 92-91. There was five seconds on the game clock. Time out Comets.

There was so much noise it was hard to hear coach as he designed our last chance play. I would take the ball out of bounds and would look first for Ryan Ruff on a break away down the sideline near our bench.

We lined up with the other four players in a bunch at the foul line and Jack would set a pic for Ruff. The second option was to get Jimmy the ball breaking across the mid court area.

Ruff broke free and my pass hit him in stride, just like we did on the gridiron a hundred times last fall. He had time for a couple dribbles, then pulled up and hit the game winner from just inside the three-point line.

We thought. But the trailing official had called a phantom travel on the play and waived off the basket. The place was bedlam and it took awhile for order to be restored. They inbounded the ball with :01 on the clock to finish the game.

FOUR

“I KNOW A WALL WHEN I SEE ONE”

TOBY KEITH

I

What a disheartening way to lose a game. Ruff was really upset and I don’t blame him. The official explained to Coach Edwards that in his opinion Ryan had shuffled his feet prior to shooting the ball. Now Coach E never complains to officials in a rude manner but he came close to losing it for sure.

“How the devil can you make that call which basically decides the game from where you were trailing the play?”

Of course the official didn’t answer as he sprinted for the shelter of the locker room surrounded by his two stripe shirted sidekicks. Homer was the word I would have used if asked. But I remembered all my coaches reminding us time and again, “Winners Win, Losers Bitch.” I wasn’t about to stray from that advice.

A reporter shoved his mike in my face as I finished the ‘handshake’ line with the Capitol players.

“What did you think of that last call?”

I stammered a bit but managed to say, “I can’t play the game as well as officiate it. So I’ll make no comment.”

“But don’t you disagree?”

“Off course I do, but he didn’t bother to ask my opinion before he made the call. Listen, it happened and I’m sure we’ll take a good look at the video later when we get back home. But even if the call wasn’t accurate there’s nothing to be done. So we’ll just chalk it up to fate and move on. We’ve got another tough one in our home opener on Tuesday.”

Coach Papp taped me on the shoulder as I was heading towards our locker room.

“We caught a break there at the end Eric, but it was a heck of a game. You were missing some key kids and that was how we managed to stay close. You’ll be fine once you’re healthy.”

I wished him and his team well. We shook hands and I said,

“Coach you’ve had a great career and Coach Edwards made it a point to let us know how much he admires your approach. He also told us you were quite a shooter during your college playing days.”

Chuckling he responded, “That’s why I have arthritis in my right arm, too many bad shot attempts.”

In the locker room Coach Edwards was all positive.

“Boy’s that was a heck of an effort. I’m very proud of the way you played and competed. Being as short handed as we were and winning the game at the end would have been awesome. The phantom call got us beat but we’re not losers. So let’s remember that and try to have a safe lead at the end of Tuesday’s game.”

“That was the worst call I’ve ever seen,” said little brother Danny when we emerged from the locker room.

Paul said, “Maybe not the worst, but close.”

Mom added, “You boys played great. Sometimes fate rears its ugly head at the wrong moment.”

Dad, as usual said nothing about the call but did offer this comment.

“Two good teams in a dog fight. I sure like the looks of our young players. We’ll be fine.”

Dad was a man of few words but he always had an encouraging word, especially after a loss.

My father is the man behind the scene. Mom plays a more visible role but that’s in her personality. Dad, on the other hand, having come from a foreign land is still sometimes reticent to offer an opinion. But I’ll tell you this if any of his sons were done wrong he’d be heard loud and clear.

The bus ride home was quiet and Robby spent the entire time with his ankle propped in the air while Pete kept the ice bags in proper position. I heard him tell coach that he didn’t think anything was broken, but that it was certainly at least a painful sprain.

“We’ll take another look when we get back and maybe have a x-ray taken tomorrow if it doesn’t get any better by then.”

My cell phone woke me in the morning as the clock closed in on 8:00 am. It was Luke.

“Rise and shine buddy,” were his first words.

His second words were, “You looked like a white magic Johnson out there playing the point.”

“It was ok but I prefer the ‘off’ guard spot. You and Blake better hurry back though or I’ll keep both of you on the bench.”

“Fat chance buddy.”

He hadn’t heard any word yet about Robby, which I took as good news.

“You going to open gym”, he asked.

“Naturally, I’ve got to get into hoops shape as fast as I can.”

“Well I’d say 29 points six days after playing in the state football finals is a good beginning.”

“Holy cow, I had 29?”

“Count ‘em buddy.”

Everyone was at the open gym, even the injured. Robby said the x-ray was negative but he didn’t look very good. I’d guess we’ll be without him for another week or two. Blake said his groin wasn’t any better and he looked pretty discouraged. Luke of course was upbeat but he’d be out another week at least.

The good news was our young guys were all in attendance and showing a lot of effort to improve their skill level for varsity competition. I really liked the way Ruff plays and Tommy was back after his mono year and showing he could play almost every position. He’s a quiet kid who loves to play and valuable because he can play so many spots.

I ended up on a team with Joel and Matt Schmid and two older guys. I could see both of our guy’s grow confidence as we played and won three in a row. Joel hit a three that clinched our first game and Matt battled with Brandon on a rebound, won the battle and banked in the winner to keep us on the floor in the second tilt.

The two ex-comet players were often at open gym and they were both good players and good guys. They were brothers, twins actually but not identical. Dusty and Derek Buley had graduated about five or six years ago and both were two-sport athletes. Derek had been a three year starter at wide receiver on some pretty good Comet teams. Dusty, on the other hand, didn’t start until he was a senior, but everyone say’s he’s a great example of hanging in and working hard. All his hard work paid off his senior year.

“Nice play Eric,” said Derek as he slapped me on the butt heading back up court after my bounce pass led him for an easy two. I gave him a fist pump just about the time he intercepted an errant pass and drove for a slam.

“Hey, old white guys aren’t supposed to be able to jump,” yelled Luke from the sideline.

About that time Derek asked for a break.

“I know a wall when I see one,” he said with a grin as one of our young JV guys took his spot.

One of the great things about being a Comet was it was family.

Maybe because it was a smaller town helped, but my feeling was our recent success in all three sports certainly merited an assist. Everyone wanted to be on the bus.

II

On Monday we got some more bad news. The ISAA, Iowa schools Activity Association, has ruled that Jack has to sit until the new year because his transfer came after school started. That means we’ll not have our starting or back up post for the immediate future.

With the lack of depth up front coach told us at practice we would be spending lot of time in our ‘Squirrel Cage’ offensive set. That put’s me in the middle with the other four players on the perimeter. Both Ryan’s were good ball handlers and could shoot the three’s so we would replace our center with another guard. For now it would be Jimmy and Tommy, with Joel the first off the bench. Coach also worked Tommy some in the middle, in case I needed bench time for some reason.

Our lineup was still decent size and we thought we could match up with teams featuring an inside big man game. Ruff, Ryan Schmid were 6’4 and I was 6’5. Jimmy was 6’3 and Tommy 6’4. No runts in that group but we would certainly have a different offensive emphasis. And, we would be only six deep, which could prove to be a problem, especially if we got into foul trouble. Brandon Loy would be number seven and although he wasn’t at this point yet a three point threat he could spend some time in the middle as well. It is what it is for now, and we’ll not spend time worrying about our unfortunate situation.

I’ll say that our bench looked a bit different as we got ready for our home opener. With Robby, Luke, Blake and Jack all in street clothes it left only eight varsity players dressed. Coach had brought up two more JV guys who would still play JV but suit with us. At least we would have ten players dressed in game uniforms and ready to play if necessary.

Southeast High of Lincoln, Nebraska brought a very good team into our gym. They looked physical and athletic as they warmed up in their

road black uniforms. Their inside game was what they hung their hat on and they played a double post offense to utilize two 6’7 post players. We would start in our man-to-man defense with Ruff and Ryan guarding their big guys. We had a distinct height advantage in the other three spots as they went with a three guard offense and only their point guard was over six feet tall. They looked like two Lilliputians a sapling and two fir trees.

The gym was packed even though they didn’t have a big following.

Our overflow group of students took up what usually is the visitors part of the bleachers. No one seemed to mind. Maybe because it was our home opener there was a lot of excitement in the air.

Unlike the first game this wasn’t a racehorse affair, which was good for us because of our lack of depth at the moment. They liked to force the ball down low and let their post guys work, and they did just that. We started with our new look offense and one of the post players was guarding me. Coach had told us that they used both man-to-man and zone. After the way the game began with me scoring ten quick points, I didn’t think they would stay long in the man-to-man. They didn’t.

We started off hot. I got two quick hoops driving past their defender and when the collapsed the perimeter defenders both Tommy and Ruff hit three pointers. We had jumped to a quick 10-4 lead. Then I got two more buckets, both with an added foul shot for six quick points.

They called a time out and to no one’s surprise came back out in a zone. Because of the way the ‘Squirrel Cage’ works, it didn’t change anything for us. It would be harder for me to drive to the hoop but it also left me with some short ten footers around the lane.

They slowed the tempo a bit after the time out and kept forcing the ball down low. Both Ruff and Ryan battled the two tall firs and didn’t give up anything easy. At mid quarter Joel subbed for Jimmy, Tommy moved inside and I took his spot on the outside. Once again we began hot as I hit two three’s from the corner in a row and Tommy drew fouls on both the big guys, making a three-point play and two foul shots. That barrage ran our lead to 25-16 and the gym was rocking.

The second quarter was a back and fourth affair with both teams showing a lot of poise and deft ball handling. They had a point guard that was obviously the offensive key. He controlled the ball and continually gestured for his teammates to move here or there as he orchestrated the offense. His name was K. C. Wood, he was maybe six one, slender and quick. I liked the way he played, always a smile on his face. It was

obvious he loved to play and by all signs his teammates loved playing with him.

About mid second quarter Jimmy came back in and Brandon subbed for Ryan Schmid. We had showed balance in our scoring as all five starters scored. While their two post players got the bulk of the visitor’s points. At the half we held a 38-30 lead.

This was fun. We had picked up the challenge with essentially four starters or quality minute sub’s sitting on the bench in street clothes.

Ruff and Smity had done a commendable job on their twin posts and both Joel and Brandon had given us quality minutes. Our packed house rooting section was in full force and the atmosphere was play-off electric.

Any time we play an out of state team it’s sort of a defend the state kind of mentality.

Our scoring was pretty even. Both Ryan’s had six, as did jimmy.

Joel and Brandon had four apiece and I had the remaining twelve.

Balance scoring usually wins the game, that is, unless one of the players is a scoring machine. As we headed out for the second half coach told us to keep the pressure on, force them to work hard to get the ball inside and we’d be fine. We tried.

The problem was foul trouble. By mid third quarter both Ryan’s were on the bench with three fouls and Jimmy and I both had two. They had done a good job of feeding the ball down low and it was causing us defensive match up issues. Fortunately we continued to shoot the ball well and led at the quarter break by six at 52-46.

Then that darn point guard hit two quick three’s back to back and the game was suddenly tied. We battled back and fourth for the remaining time and with :48 seconds on the clock I had a one and one free throw opportunity with a tie score at 66-66. I felt confident on the line and both attempts hit net bottom. Comets by two, 68-66.

The place was rocking and to their credit the Knights didn’t fold their tent. The passed the ball around looking for one of the post guys to break free. Nothing did and they called their last time out with :12

showing on the game clock.

Coach wanted me to help inside on their best big man and for the rest of us to lock down in a tight man-to-man. We had all our starters in the game and so did our opponents. This was heading for an exciting ending. It was.

Their point guard looked inside but there was nothing there as the clock wound down towards double zero. Finally he passed the ball to the

wing on my side and he found just enough room over my flying defensive attempt to fire up a prayer. And damn, God answered. The ball banked in off the glass, and their entire team exploded on to the floor as the buzzer sounded.

This was getting old in a hurry. Two games two losses at the buzzer. The final score of 69-68 was flashing on the scoreboard as our opponents celebrated along with their tiny section of rooters who had also stormed the floor. That damn ball somehow found a way to drop through the hoop and with that result we would need to find a way to stop the blood flow.

I congratulated K. C. after the game, “Wow great game. You guys just found a way to win.”

“Thanks Eric, you know when you guys get healthy you won’t be too much fun to try to match up with. Thank goodness we caught you without a full squad.”

Nice kid. About then Paul and Danny arrived. It was Paul’s gesture that said it all, as he puts his hands out and had a questioning look on his face that said, what next?

FIVE

“FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS”

NEIL DIAMOND

I

Christmas vacation had come and Coach Edwards gave us three days off. Our next challenge would be in the same tournament in Missouri we had won a year ago. We would be defending champions but if our fortunes didn’t change that crown would sit on someone else’s head by the end of the week.

We left on Wednesday headed for the tournament site in Kansas City, Missouri. It was a three day tournament with eight teams involved.

Our first round opponent would be Rockhurst, the host team and the school we had defeated in last year’s tournament final. The Blue and White Hawklets had a long and successful tradition of athletic excellence.

This would be a challenge we needed to be ready to meet. I wondered about that as the bus pulled into their parking lot.

We had a workout set for three o’clock and we would have the floor for two hours. I knew Coach Edwards wouldn’t use the entire allotted time but he would be very thorough with his practice plan. Our big issue would be two fold. First, who would begin at the post position and second, what kind of player rotation would he come up with to give us our best chance of winning.

I’ll admit to being a little surprised at first when Coach E told us our best chance without either of our post players was to continue to run our

‘Squirrel Cage’ offense. But, after some thought it was obvious it fit our remaining healthy squad best.

I would be the inside player while the four outside guys would be Jimmy, Tommy, Ruff and Ryan. They could all handle the ball and because of the rotation in the offense each would need to be at times the

‘point’ guard. The good news was we went 6’5, 6,4, 6,4, 6’4 and 6’2. No true center but five athletes all of whom played football. We knew what kind of a challenge we faced and actually, to be truthful, enjoyed being the underdog for a change.

We were essentially an eight man rotation with Brandon being my sub and Matt and Joel backups for the outside guys. I thought we might need another ball handler and Coach must have felt the same as he had brought up Madison Peel, who was the starting point for the JV team, to give us one more perimeter player. He was a sophomore, but a three sport athlete. He played with the confidence of an intelligent athlete which he was as he sported a 4.0 grade point average.

We zipped through our allotted two hour period, using the last fifteen minutes to walk through our full court press and shooting free throws. We gathered for a few words and listened to Coach give us his quick thoughts.

“I like our athleticism and let’s play with the confidence we’ll need.

Remember we expect to win every game and this is no exception just because we’ve got four of our athletes in street clothes. We’ve proved to be a resilient team over these past three seasons. I’m sure Rockhurst is well aware of our situation what they might not expect is for us to play like wounded animals.”

That brought a big smile to all our young faces and Luke then brought us together.

“Let’s kick some Hawk ass guys. What the hell Is a ‘Hawklet’

anyway?

With that we jogged to the locker room, showered, dressed and headed to the bus. I think the confidence was a group thing, and like coach said, we expected to win.

We spent the evening watching a re-run of last year’s final game.

Coach E pointed out how they tried to attack our pressure and what we needed to do to give them nowhere to go with the ball once we had it stopped. The plan was to alternate between our zone and our man-to-man pressure game to try and keep them off balance.

After dinner we relaxed in our rooms and had a ten o’clock lights out mandate. That wasn’t an issue in Luke and my room as we were both a bit tired from the trip, practice and our video session. I fell asleep soon after my head hit the pillow and Luke must have followed closely behind because I woke a few hours later with the TV still on and Luke sawing logs.

Ours was the first game of the day, beginning at the breakfast hour of ten o’clock. We were up at seven, had a quick bite to eat and one more walk through session in the hotel lobby. We dressed in our game

uniform and sporting our North Carolina/UCLA blue warm up gear we hopped onto the van and headed for the gym.

I was a bit shocked to find the place nearly full, but then again we were playing the home team and tournament host. We were wearing our visiting blue uniforms while the host’s wore white. Their cheerleaders were doing a well-rehearsed routine and their band was busy blasting out the fight song. My heart was pumping and my jersey was pretty much soaked before the referee tossed the ball to begin the game.

II

Last year in the final we jumped to a 25-5 first quarter lead and never looked back. I’m quite sure their coaching staff had reminded them of that fact and as we lined up they had a confident look. I’m sure part of that was gazing at the end of our bench where Luke, Blake, Robby and Jack sat in street clothes.

What happened next was a shock I’m sure. They began in a box and one defense, which I think the ‘Squirrel Cage’ was perfectly designed to beat. The player guarding me seemed a bit confused and out of position. He was a guard and stood 6’1. I had no trouble shooting over him. It wasn’t a good match up for them and their two post players were at the bottom of the four-man zone and not equipped to defend our shooters.

After four minutes, the very frustrated Hawklet head coach called time out. The score was sixteen to four in our favor. And just like last year their rooting section was stunned and sitting on their hands. The band was silent and the gym seemed more like a morgue. As we sat on our chairs I could feel closeness in our group as we listened to Coach E

give us our instructions.

“They’ll probably change to a man-to-man so let’s just be sure to make sharp passes, cut through the key and rotate with precision.”

They did change but it didn’t help much. They had one of their post players guarding me and although he was a flat nickel taller he couldn’t stay with my quickness. Once they tried to sag in on me in the key that left open our guys in the corners. Both Ryan’s hit three pointers, I added two quick in the lane hoops and Jimmy ended our thirteen point onslaught with another three, from the top of the key. Timeout.

Coach Edwards did a great job of subbing and all nine healthy players saw the floor in the first quarter. It was a shocked looking bunch

of Rockhurst players gathering on their end of the court as the quarter came to a close. We had a 32-12 lead. By halftime it had grown to 55-21 and our small but enthusiastic crowd was standing as we filed out of the gym for the break.

The second half was nearly a carbon copy but coach subbed liberally and our offense slowed the tempo a bit. The result was a final of 89-54 and was a testimony of our resilience and our sudden depth, led by the sophomore players who were quickly adapting to the increased speed of the game at this level.

I led the scoring with 26, while Ruff and Ryan chipped in with twelve apiece. Jimmy had a solid ten point game. The remaining points were divided up evenly with the rest of the guys. Both Joel and Madison showed they belonged and both had six points. We were a happy group heading into the locker room. The Hawklets looked still in a state of bewilderment as we passed through the handshake line.

One of the big post players said to me, “Holly cow, you guys were great. I sure don’t want to play you when those other four guys return.”

I thanked him and thought to myself, ‘ won’t that be fun’.

Their coach was very complimentary as well. As I passed by I heard him say, “Coach you guys are just too damn good.” And then he followed that up, with a big smile on his face, “Don’t count on being invited next year. We’d like to win our own tournament.” I just chuckled to myself.

The next game was underway when I left the locker room and sat with our team in the designated team area. Trinity Catholic, another team we had played last year in the tournament, was in a battle with Notre Dame catholic from Cape Girardeau, Missouri. If you hadn’t noticed this tournament was stacked with private high schools, we being the one exception to that.

I was kind of rooting for ND as they would be a new opponent but really didn’t care if we were to have another rematch. At halftime ND

lead by two at 54-52. Both teams liked to push the ball down the court and defense didn’t appear to be the strong suit of either team. Trinity had a couple players I recognized from last year who were leading them in scoring. But neither team, in my opinion, had the athletes we did. And to boot, neither potential opponent had a dominant big man that could cause us some defensive problems. I liked our chances.

As we headed for the bus, just after the halftime break, Coach Edwards motioned for me to stop. He was chatting with someone I didn’t recognize.

“Eric I’d like you to meet a good friend of mine.”

And he proceeded to introduce me to an elderly man looking quite dapper.

“This is my high school principal, Jerry Johnson, and he’s being pretty complimentary with praise for our team.”

I shook his hand and thanked him. While still holding on to my hand in a firm grip he said, “Son, I’ve watched a lot of basketball and a lot of sports. Seen a ton of good athletes. I’d just like to say it’s sure a pleasure to see a talented athlete like you show such class while competing.”

Before I could answer he continued, “Coach has told me all about you and I can now see why he sings your praise.”

“Wow, thank you Mr. Johnson. I’ve had great coaches here at Crater and they all insist on our acting like good guys.”

“Then they deserve credit because it’s pretty obvious you have taken their words to heart.”

As we walked toward the exit coach said, “Mr. Johnson is forever in blue jeans but I’ll tell you he was one of the best administrators I’ve ever had the pleasure to be around. He began his teaching career as a choir instructor and even took a large group of his kids to Europe one summer.

I chuckled as I turned for one last look at the man Coach so admired. He must be in his seventies but looked sharp in a nice sport coat with an open collar dress shirt and nicely ironed blue jeans.

SIX

“COOL THING”

RASCAL FLATS

I

Trinity Catholic had turned the tables the second half and won by six at 88-82. We would be facing them for the second time in two years.

It was a very competitive game a year ago and I’m sure it would be again. We heard the news during our team dinner, which included family as well. Most of the players had their parents along and it was a fun filled evening meal at a local pizza parlor.

Because we had won and were in the tournament semi-final the game was in the evening, the first of two games versus winners of first round parings. Ours would begin at six o’clock, with the Lutheran South game against Crosspoint Cristian Academy to follow. Winners would play Saturday night, with a nine o’clock start.

We had a morning shoot around and the auxiliary gym at Rockhurst. It was mostly shooting and some walk through of the offense Trinity would be running against us. We were familiar of course having played them in the tournament a year ago. Then we spent some time going over our ‘Squirrel Cage’ and also with Brandon in the middle and me on the outside.

As we walked off the court I said to him, “Hey Brandon, get yourself mentally ready. Coach wouldn’t have gone over that if he didn’t plan on you being on the court for some quality minutes.”

His eyes lite up and I saw a bounce in his step I hadn’t noticed before. My thought was ‘ the kid would be ready.’

The day dragged along but we did attend the Rockhurst game and they looked like a different team. We watched the first half and they led by fifteen over an over matched St. Pius X team from Kansas City. The gym was nearly full and as we left our seats and headed for the locker room there was a smattering of applause from the local’s. I thought that was a pretty cool thing.

The Trinity Titans were the visitor and wearing their crimson, silver and white uniforms. I nodded to both of the kids I remembered from last year and they both smiled and wished me luck, which I returned.

One in particular looked impressive to me. His name was Pete Romo and he was their returning post player. I remember a skinny immature kid from last year and he had obviously matured. I don’t think he shaved when I last saw him but this edition was probably twenty five pounds heavier and looked like a seasoned veteran.

I’m not sure if it was the kiss of death to me but anyway I was on the bench with two fouls just four minutes into the game. Brandon would be getting his baptism sooner than we both thought. But he was ready and the first two times down the floor on offense he responded with baskets. Ruff had started off hot as well, hitting two three’s and adding a lay-in off our fast break. At the quarter the good guys were up by four at 22-18.

I was back in at the start of the quarter and back on the bench two minutes later when I was called for what I thought was a very questionable charging call. Didn’t matter, three fouls and you sit. At the half we nursed a 41-40 lead and I had exactly two points. I didn’t really care about that but I sure wasn’t happy with bench time, which was all my own fault.

Ryan and Tommy were picking up the missed points I usually add to our total and the result was we still led at the break. Again, everyone dressed had played and we looked pretty fresh as we trotted back onto the court. Our rooting section was equal to theirs and I was pretty sure the Rockhurst rooters had joined our side.

Our full court pressure hadn’t caused the Titans much problem during the first half but we picked up the pace a bit, tightening our grip and managed to disrupt their rhythm. It helped on their big post player as well as he didn’t get nearly the touches he had in the first half.

At the same time I got loose in the lane for eight points in the quarter and managed to make it though the third with no more fouls. We led with a quarter to play at 59-50.

Jimmy had his fourth foul called shortly into the final stanza and Joel replaced him in the lineup. I told him to act like he’d been here before and that brought a smile to his face.

“Thanks Eric, I’ll give it my best.”

He did. He stole the inbounds pass after our next basket and converted a three point play, with a free throw after being fouled on his ensuing drive to the hoop. Not a minute later he hit a three pointer when their defender sagged on me in the post. I don’t think his feet touched the ground as we headed to the bench after they called a hasty time out.

There were exactly four minutes left on the game clock and we led by twelve at 65-53.

The lead stayed at twelve until the final minute when they tacked on a quick six to our single hoop to close the final gap to eight at 74-66.

We had played well again, with everyone contributing and were into the final vs the winner of Lutheran South and Chaminade College Prep contest.

After the game I spoke with Pete Romo and hopefully gave him a boost.

“You’ve rally improved Pete and your team is way better than a year ago. Good luck during your league season.”

“Thanks, that means a lot coming from you. I understand your being recruited by the world but chose Nebraska. Well good luck, keep those ‘Huskers riding high.”

Coach Edwards was high on his praise of our two unsung hero’s Brandon, who finished with fourteen points, and Joel who’s ten in the fourth quarter gave everyone of this teammates cause to slap him on the backside. He was a non verbal guy most of the time but I thought the smile might never leave his face.

This team was proving, even without four mainstays, to be not just competitive but very versatile. Once our ‘Big’s’ and our point guards returned to action we would have a lot of weapons and could play two completely different styles. The confidence around the room was pretty obvious and all of the healthy guys understood when we got healthy as a team look out CVL.

II

We spent the next day, championship Saturday, lounging in our motel rooms and had a very short shoot around at four o’clock. By the time we left for the gym I thought we were rested and ready to go.

Lutheran South out of St. Louis had won and we would face for the first time in the tournament a team with formidable post players. They had two 6’7 studs and we would be tested for sure.

Coach had decided to start with Ryan and Ryan on their post guys but he told all of us to be ready when needed. Then he looked at Jimmy, Joel and Madison, smiled and said, “Rest easy you three. I won’t throw you to the wolves, unless your teammates use up the foul allotment.”

Everyone laughed and I think that loosened us up a bit. We headed for the packed gymnasium ready for action.

As we expected the Black and Gold Lancers spent the entire first quarter feeding the ball inside. I can’t remember another player taking a shot. Both Ryan’s did a credible job and when Tommy and I took our turn we were both able to deny the inside pass by over playing the entry pass angle. At the quarter break we were tied at fifteen and no one was in foul trouble.

The second quarter was more of the same on defense. Our sagging man-to-man was proving to be frustrating for our opponents and we turned up the tempo on offense. The score was tied when first I hit a three off a fast break and then in turn Jimmy, Tommy and Ruff all did the same. We had them spread out with good ball movement and time and again found room for open three’s. Suddenly we had surged ahead by ten and they called time out. There was 2:54 left on the clock.

Trying to force us out of our smothering inside defense their guards attempted to hit outside shots. We let them shoot and the result was a gift for the Comets. Three misses all of which we answered with scores on our end. Our sixteen point run made the halftime score 41-25. As we left the floor the combined Rockhurst and Crater fans led a rousing cheer while the dejected Lancer fans could only watch in dismay.

The adrenalin rush kept us fresh and still in command during the up and back second half action. They had turned up the tempo in an attempt to cut the gap but the flow favored us as we were used to the fast pace. We increased our advantage at the end of the third, leading 64-46. That was the good news. The bad was we all hit the wall at the same time.

Give the Lancers credit for not quitting. They made a quick surge to begin the fourth and coach had to call a time out after three minutes.

Our lead had been cut to ten at 68-58.

“Let’s slow the pace a bit guys. Pass and cut and see if we can milk the clock on each possession. I don’t want us to lose our rhythm but patience might be the better idea at this point.”

We spent over a minute with our next possession and the frustration on the Lutheran team finally got the better of them when one of the big guys hammered Ryan Schmid after he garnered a rebound on a miss by Tommy. The referee called it a flagrant foul, giving Ryan two free throws and we retained possession of the ball. Ryan made both foul

attempts and I hit a floater in the key after the inbounds pass. It took the wind out of their sails and the rest of the quarter was played evenly.

The clock wound down to zero with Jimmy dribbling the ball out front and when the buzzer sounded the final score flashed on the game clock. Comets 82, Lancers 69. We were champions once again in the Rockhurst invitational tournament.

After shaking hands we all sat on our respective benches as the trophy’s were presented. We sent Joel and Brandon out to receive our first place plaque much to their delight. We were a team and everyone had contributed. We had faced adversity without a fully loaded gun and came through with three wins all of them decisive.

The All-Tournament team was announced and we dominated, to no one’s shock. The Ryan’s, Ruff and Schmid, joined me on the first team and to my surprise I was awarded the tournament MVP award.

After the ceremony ended and the crowd thinned a reporter asked if would mind answering a few questions on camera?

“Of course not. No problem,” I said as the reporter and camera man settled into place.

The first question surprised me a bit to say the least.

“Eric, you’ve committed to Nebraska for football but it’s pretty obvious you’re way more than just a football player. I’ve been told, and it’s pretty well known that you’ve also been offered a basketball scholarship to Indiana. My question is how can you refuse an offer to play for the legendary Bobby Knight?”

I took a moment to gather my thoughts before answering.

“First of all the official signing date isn’t until mid January. But yes I’ve verbally committed to the Cornhuskers.”

The reporter looked a little unsatisfied with that so he again asked,

“But Coach Knight has offered, correct?”

“Coach Knight and I have a great relationship. He’s been giving me advice now for a long time. I couldn’t have a better man to listen to, that’s a fact.”

Before I could go on the reporter asked, “So you are going to turn down his offer?”

“I’ve told Coach Knight that football is my first love and I need to follow that dream. He understands. But I’ll tell you this much, if football for some reason doesn’t turn out I think I’d be welcome as a walk on at Hoosierville.”

“Well, there you have it, from the mouths of babes. This is Gill Bobb, channel six sports.”

Relaxing in the shower the first thought I had was, ‘We now had three wins and two losses, which put us in the winning record column’.

SEVEN

“BIRD DOG”

THE EVERLY BROTHERS

I

As usual the Christmas break was full of family fun and cheer.

Cezar was actually in Chicago with his parents for Christmas day but didn’t stay long. He was back with his second family for our New Years Eve celebration. I find it very hard to stay up until midnight but managed to make it.

We had gathered at Val’s place in sort of an impromptu party. It started innocent enough when Cezar and I dropped by to say hello and wish Val and her mother a happy new year. But then Don and Marian showed up, followed by more of the gang and before you count down the numbers until midnight, it was midnight. But it wasn’t long after the new year came marching in that I called it a day.

Another surprise was Dom showed up.

“I thought you were going to Vienna for the holidays and also do some skiing?”

“We had to cut it short. No snow this year in the Alps. And it gets a bit mundane sitting around the house all day long.”

“Tell me about Christmas in Vienna. What’s it like?”

He went on to tell us that the big difference was in Vienna they had what is called in English Christmas markets, Christkindlmarkt in German.

“The biggest one is right in front of city hall, called the Rothouse.

And it’s always so crowded you can hardly move around. They serve what is called Rotwein, which is a hot red wine usually served in little ceramic glasses of some kind that you can keep.”

He talked about little Christmas trinkets of all type and also some holiday food choices sold from booths. Also, he told us about the huge ice rink that is put up directly in front of the Rothouse.

“It gets bigger every year,” he said, and apparently there are concerts all over town and he told us about all the Vienna lights.

“You can walk downtown, in the first district, and it’s almost like day because of all the Christmas lights. Very festive and beautiful as well.”

Dom is a charmer so it didn’t take the girls long to fall under his spell.

It was Marian who said, “Wow, it sounds beautiful. I’ll put it on my future to do list.”

Don, standing nearby overheard and piped in with, “That list is getting pretty long my dear.”

Marian just looked at my Yeti friend and winked. I think she had Don under her own spell.

School had begun again and we were preparing for our final two pre-season games. It looked like a different team getting ready for practice as our four ‘street clothes’ teammates were all bouncing around the gym floor with renewed enthusiasm. I couldn’t wait to hear what Coach Edwards had to say to the group and as he walked into the gym it got very quiet. He called us together for the much anticipated team talk.

“Welcome back boys,” he said while looking at Luke, Blake, Robby and Jack.

After a short pause he continued, “What we’ve learned during the past few weeks is we’ve got a lot of depth and we’ll be able to mix and match to keep our opponents guessing. I really like the way our small lineup came together and that’s going to be a real benefit as we head into our league season, and small isn’t so small. Remember we’re defending champions in both our league and the state. Now let’s gear up and put the pieces back together.”

We hustled through our warm up drills and spent time going over our regular offense. Coach didn’t spend much time with the ‘Squirrel Cage’ as we’d done nothing but that in the Missouri tournament. His emphasis, at least with this practice, was to make sure we were comfortable with our regular offense, especially with the spacing.

Luke and Blake shared time at the point and Robby and Jack likewise in the post. I went back to the ‘off’ guard spot with Jimmy as my backup. The Ryan’s were at the forward spots backed up by Tommy and Brandon. Joel stayed with us and worked at both forward and ‘Off’ guard while Matt, who had gotten some good experience and minutes during the tournament went, along with Madison, back to the JV squad. Both would suit for varsity games though and their time with the younger team would give them quality minutes during JV games.

First up on Tuesday was Waterloo West. We hadn’t played them in a long time so it would be a different preparation. The game was at home and everyone was excited to kick off the new year with a win. The

Red and Black War Hawks came into the game with a three win two loss record.

The gym was full and I think the West guys were a bit in awe. They didn’t show a lot of confidence as we broke the huddle and settled in around the mid court circle for the center jump. In fact the guy next to me shook my hand and whispered, “Take it easy on us Eric.” I just looked at him and smiled.

Luke was really pumped, his injury healed, and he didn’t disguise it at all. He flew up and down the court, setting the up-pace tempo and talking to teammates giving rapid-fire instructions as he played the point guard role like a bird dog pointing out the quarry. It was like old times and his leadership was a shot in the arm for all of us.

I’ll give the War Hawks credit; they didn’t just go through the motions. They worked hard on defense but were a bit over matched.

But when you’re focused and competing good things usually happen.

We weren’t as sharp as I had hoped; it would take awhile to get back into our rhythm with our regular lineup. The quarter score was 16-12, good but far from great.

Coach subbed Blake for Luke and Tommy for Ruff and two minutes into the second quarter Jack gave Robby a rest. A minute later Jimmy gave me some bench time. We continued to pad our lead and when the starters returned to the court with five minutes left in the half we led by ten at 26-16.

I think we were beginning to wear down our opponent and it showed as we went on a twelve point run closing the half up by a comfortable 38-21 score.

The starters played only about half the third quarter before Coach subbed an entire new group. Our backup guys, especially Jimmy and Tommy, had played a lot so there wasn’t much, if any, drop off. Blake was his old self, which was great to see. That groin injury seemed to be under control and his speed and quickness was obvious for everyone to see. I noticed the typical Blake competiveness which brought a smile to my face.

Jack controlled the boards and Brandon, showing a lot of confidence after his excellent play during the tournament, gave us quality minutes as well. Coach played Robby about half the fourth quarter and Luke as well. I’m sure he wanted them to get back to normal as fast as possible and you couldn’t do that sitting on the bench. I didn’t play at all which was fine with me. The final score was 88-62.

In the locker room after the game Coach Edwards complimented everyone on our effort and competiveness. Then he reminded us we had a challenge ahead with a trip to Storm Lake on Friday to face St. Mary’s, a quality team. We hadn’t used our full court pressure at all and he told us we would spend practice time on Wednesday and Thursday working on both our 1-3-1 zone press as well as our man-to-man version. To me that meant we would be using ten players, so we would always be fresh with the group on the court. Depth is a huge bonus and once again we had a lot of it.

II

The end of first semester was fast approaching and I wanted to make sure I kept my straight A academic record in tact.

By

next

Friday, final test day, I wanted to be sharp and focused, so I spent most of my free time at home studying.

“Eric, you’re sure spending a lot of time in your room, are you working on something special?”

“Nope. Next week is final week for first semester and I want to be on top of my game.”

Mom just shook her head and headed into the kitchen whistling a tune.

“What’s for dinner mom?”

“Your favorite.”

“Ice cream?”

“Ha, ha. Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy.”

“You’re the best chef in the house mom. Call me when it’s ready.”

I bounced up the stairs ready for another thirty minutes working on my history term paper. It was on the Continental Congress and one of my favorite subjects. I had a strong A going but I didn’t want to take any chances. Finishing it would give me time to work on my chemistry tomorrow, which was my worst subject. Those formulas always gave me trouble.

Practice went well and by Friday when the bus left I think we were in great shape. Everyone seemed to be OK with their role and our substitution pattern was pretty well set. Baring any setback, injury wise, these next two games would give us time to be honed to perfection by the time league began a week from today.

The St. Mary’s Panthers were wearing their home white’s with black numbers and striping and they looked formable as they went through their pre-game warm ups. We hadn’t played them since I’d been on the varsity team so it would be another test against a new opponent.

As Coach E sent us on to the court he reminded us to start the game in our zone full court pressure after every basket. I don’t think the Panthers were ready for that and they had trouble bringing the ball up court immediately. Robby had scored a quick basket on a post up play and they looked a little startled as we jumped into our full court press.

We trapped the inbounds pass and the weak outlet pass was easily picked off. Ruff took the pass from Ryan and laid it in for a quick four point lead.

We followed that steal with another when they tried to pass up court. I was in the middle, anticipated the pass, and picked it off.

Another pass and another lay in for Ruff. Comets by six, time out St.

Mary’s.

Coach decided it was a good time to switch to our man-to-man pressure as they would certainly be spending the time out period going over our zone pressure and where to go with the ball.

We waited until they came up the floor and missed a contested jumper from the free throw line extended. Robby grabbed the rebound, fired an outlet pass to me and I kicked it quickly to Luke and filled the outside lane. Luke drew the defense to him as he headed for the hoop and bounced a perfect pass back to me flying in from the side. The ensuing dunk was met with hoops and hollers from our boosters. The scoreboard flashed 8-0 for the visitors.

We set up in our man-to-man press and they couldn’t get the ball inbounds. After five seconds the ref blew his whistle and Robby took the ball out of bounds. We ran a double pick, which I broke off of and was open in the corner. The ball felt great leaving my hand and swished through the net for a three pointer. Comets up by eleven.

The rest of the quarter went about the same, although the Panthers managed to get enough offense going to score a few points. The quarter ended with us holding a commanding eighteen point lead at 24-6. The home crowd was silent.

Everyone played in the first half as we continued to dominate the game in all phases. We were racing up and down the court and causing total havoc with our pressure defense. Our subbing routine kept fresh athletes on the court and poor St. Mary’s just couldn’t keep up. We led

by thirty at the half and Coach E told the starters to be ready for some bench time.

The final was 87-44 and to be truthful I felt a little sorry for our opponents. We were a fine tuned machine and try as they might nothing worked for the black and white Panthers. By the end of the third quarter most of their rooting section had left. They missed a twenty point effort by the home team in the fourth quarter.

It was a happy group of players showering after the game. It was Friday and Storm Lake was only about a forty-five minute drive up the freeway.

“How about the Doorway guys,” asked Luke as we dressed?

“Good idea buddy. Let’s get the weekend started with a bang.”

The entire varsity team showed up and there was the usual crowd already there. As we walked into the room Doug hollered to me, “Hey you, Cornhusker get over here.”

“What’s up Doug,” I asked?

“Did you see the Friday sports page?”

I hadn’t but he was holding it up for me to see. Staring me in the face was my picture, actually two pictures, in football gear and the second in basketball uniform. The headline was “Which way will our super star go?”

“Well hell,” I said. “Where’s the picture of me in a baseball uniform?”

“Don’t put the pressure on him Doug. You know he can’t handle it.”

It was Marian. Leave it to her to stir the pot. But she was smiling and laughing along with Jackie and Val.

“OK, OK enough. Drinks are on me. Letter of intent day is next Tuesday. Then everyone who doesn’t already know will know. Go Huskers!”

EIGHT

“BLUES MAN”

ALAN JACKSON

I

Tuesday would turn out to be a long day. It began well with a short session in the hallway next to the counselor’s offices. They had set up a table and five of us were getting ready to sign our letters of intent. Of course for me it was a representative of Nebraska football who held the paper work to sign. Also in attendance was a representative from Iowa with letters for both Beau Lander and Rob Wien. Brandon Janes was set to sign with U. Missouri and J.D. Graves with the University of Oregon.

There was a large group of friends and family surrounding the area and Coach Vincetti didn’t take long to get the session started.

“We have been very fortunate here at Crater to have many quality athletes fill our rosters. This past football season these five young men were the heart and sole of our state championship team. They’ve earned this honor and I know I speak for everyone here in wishing them all the best of luck.”

With that we all signed our paper work and after a few words from our AD and principal the ceremony ended with friends and family joining and congratulating all five of us.

The rest of the day flashed by and before I knew it the pep band was playing the star spangled banner and we were set to begin our final pre-season game against the visitors from Mason City. They were a quality opponent much like the two Omaha teams, Capitol and Southeast.

We were back to full strength and with two games under our belt.

Our fans would be cheering the team they thought they were going to be rooting to victory after victory before the injury jinx hit us square in the face.

Mason City had good athletes on the floor and the guy who would be guarding me was another three-sport athlete. We’d met at one of the

Nebraska fraternity functions last spring. As I recall he would be going to Kansas on a baseball ride.

“Hey Eric, you’re looking good. Good luck.”

We shook hands and I told him good luck as well.

The referee tossed the ball and the game was on. They liked to run and also press so it promised to be a racehorse affair. It started out that way and I thought people were sure going to get their money’s worth.

About half way through the first quarter we were trading baskets and enjoying the challenge after two easy wins. I had just hit a three pointer after coming off a Ryan Schmid screen and was setting up in the middle of our 1-3-1 zone press. The ball was being doubled near the sideline and I saw their guard attempting to find an open man. Then he lobbed a pass over my head, which landed near the center court circle.

I headed in that direction and arrived at the same time as their 6’6 post.

I didn’t see him coming but I felt his arrival.

The next thing I remember is lying on the gym floor with blood seemingly everywhere. Pete Rock was furiously working to stop the bleeding which was from what was probably a broken nose. But that wasn’t the worst of it. A shooting pain coming from my left shoulder had me nearly in tears. The gymnasium was eerily quiet.

Coach Edwards was leaning down but I couldn’t hear what he was asking. There was an overpowering ringing in my ears, which nullified everything being said. Coach E looked like a character in a silent movie.

His lips were moving but no sound came out.

I could see feet surrounding us and suddenly I was very cold.

About then coach put a blanket over me which helped. Finally Pete got the blood flow stopped and asked what else hurt. I barely heard, more of a lip read really, but I managed to say, “It’s my left shoulder.”

Finally with Luke and Ruff assisting I was escorted off the court and into the training room. I could hear applause but that didn’t help much.

They lay me down on a training table and stood for a moment. Luke finally said, “Hang in their Eric, we’ve got your back.”

I was in and out of it for what seemed like forever. Our team doctor on duty, Dr. Soda, was checking out the shoulder and trying to comfort me at the same time.

I heard him say to Pete, “We’ll need to get an x-ray of that shoulder and possibly a cat scan as well. He’s got symptoms of head trauma and we’ll need to find out if he has a concussion. I’m pretty sure he does.”

He had also checked my heart rate and there was a moment when I thought I saw concern in his eyes. But the thought passed as my shoulder screamed, reminding me of my immediate discomfort.

I drifted off again and the next thing I recall was lying in what had to be an ambulance. It wasn’t long before we came to a screeching halt at the emergency room entrance of the local hospital. I was totally conscious now and I didn’t like where I was and a bit scared as well.

This was a nightmare, and then I drifted off again.

The next time I woke mom and dad were standing next to my bed.

Mom held my hand and dad had his arm around her. I could see some tears and I had to fight back my own.

Looking at them both I tried to smile but it didn’t come off very well.

Then I said, “Give me the bad news first.”

It was mom who answered.

“Doctor Soda will be right back, he’s conferring with the ER doctor.

They’ve taken an x-ray and a cat scan. We’re all waiting for the results.”

She was trying to look positive and I know wanted to reassure me that all would be OK. I wasn’t so sure. About then Dr. Soda came through the door and three sets of eyes focused on him.

“Eric, the good news is there is no broken bones in the shoulder.

What you have is a pretty serious separation. And, the CAT scan shows you definitely have a concussion. I think you’ve probably figured out your nose is also broken. I hope you didn’t have a date tonight.”

II

I spent a very restless night, seemingly waking up every half hour or so. I was fighting depressing thoughts and I knew that wasn’t a good sign. Finally, somewhere around two in the morning, I asked for something to allow me to sleep and the nurse obliged.

In the morning Mom was sitting by the bed. She smiled and asked,

“What do you need?”

“I’ve got a horse kicking me in the head. Can you somehow fight him off?”

At that very moment the nurse came into the room.

“OK, you’re awake. Now let’s get these pills down the hatch.”

“I hope they’re for my headache because if they’re not please run as fast as you can for a bottle of Advil.”

She smiled and said, “They are.”

She went on to tell me the doctor would be in soon and that there was a waiting room full of people wanting to say hello.

“Doctor doesn’t want you overloaded so he’s only going to allow four or five in to see you.”

Then she reminded me to keep each visit short. Fat chance, but I promised, as the horse stopped kicking.

Big surprise the first in the room was two guys, Luke and Cezar.

I tried to smile but it wasn’t easy. So I just shrugged and asked, “Who won?”

It was Luke who told me the bad news.

“After they carried you out we were all in a state of shock. They jumped on us pretty good and by halftime we were down ten. Coach E

urged us to forget the injury and to play hard. No one forgot but we did play better. The final was 67-65. We had a chance at the end but Robby’s jumper missed at the buzzer.”

They both asked about the extent of the injuries and I gave them what I knew. Then I added, “No one is saying how long I’ll be out, but I’ll make it back as soon as possible. What ever it takes.”

As Luke left he turned and said, “Don’t let the blues man win the battle my friend.”

The next guy to visit was the player from Mason City who collided with me. At first I didn’t recognize him but it was pretty obvious as soon as he began to speak.

“I’m really sorry Eric,” looking at me with a face that told me I wasn’t very pretty at the moment.

“I was just going for the ball and I didn’t see you. My head hit you square in the face and you fell really hard on your shoulder. It was all my fault.”

I could tell he was really shaken up and I wanted to assure him it was just sport and things happen.

“Well let me tell you that’s the hardest hit I’ve ever taken. Never got hit that hard in football and I hope I won’t.”

We chatted for a bit longer and then as he got up to leave I told him not to worry.

“I know it wasn’t intentional, please understand. And, good luck you guys are very good.”

Finally my teammates crowded into the room and we tried to keep the mood upbeat. We did, sort of I think. After five minutes or so the nurse came back in and shooed everyone out. I went back to sleep.

Before they let me out of the hospital on Friday Dr. Soda walked in with a gentleman I didn’t recognize.

“Eric this is Dr. Woolcott, he’s a cardiologist and wants to take a quick look at you.”

That caught my attention pretty fast.

“You’re a heart doctor,” I mumbled and continued, “Am I going to have a heart attack too?”

He smiled and then asked me to pull up my t-shirt while he searched around with his stethoscope searching for my heart beat.

It took him awhile and then he asked me a question that somehow I knew was coming.

“Eric have you ever had a sudden rapid heart beat? Not during a game or contest of some kind. Maybe just when you’ve been doing nothing?”

I looked at him and then at Dr. Soda, pausing while I considered the question.

“Yes I have. About once or twice a year out of nowhere my heart starts racing. It usually only lasts a minute or two though. Is that a problem?”

“Well, it’s a red flag for sure. How long has this been going on?”

“I can remember being pretty young, probably around ten years old I think.”

“When was the last time it happened?”

“It’s been a long time. Sometime last summer maybe.”

He turned to Dr. Soda and they chatted for a bit before he turned back and said, “I’m going to have you come see me in my office as soon as you’re feeling better. I want to put you through some simple tests.

That will tell me if we have a problem and if so where to go next.”

“Doctor you’re scaring me a little.”

“Son, I don’t mean to do that, but this little fracas you got yourself involved in last night might just have alerted us to a bigger problem than a broken nose and a separated shoulder.”

NINE

“BOTTOM OF MY HEART”

TOBY KEITH

I

They had told me it looked like it would be at least three weeks before I would be allowed back at practice. That didn’t set well but there was nothing I could do about it. And that was before I went in to see Dr.

Woolcott, which was scheduled for next week.

I got a call from Coach Solich who wished me well and assured me that my injury wouldn’t have any affect on my scholarship. That was nice to hear.

I also got a call from Coach Knight. We talked for thirty minutes and he just kept saying to take it slow and not hurry back into action too soon.

“Discretion is the better part of valor my boy. Use that brain you’ve got and have patience.”

We talked about his team, which was doing well. He seemed pretty excited. He told me he felt they were probably a year away but he really liked how the team was showing signs of life.

“It’s been too long since we made a run in the NCAA’s and I’m tired of packing the gear early.”

Then he went on and on about Steve Alford a 6’2 freshmen guard from New Castle, Indiana.

“I think Steve can be the missing piece for us. Time will tell.”

After I hung up my mind was racing and most of the concern was not about my injuries or our team. It was more about the unknown. I had always wondered about that speeded up heart beat, but it never lasted long and I just didn’t think it was important.

Mom had asked why I never told her about the rapid heartbeat and I told here I just didn’t think it was worth bringing up.

“Son, your heart is nothing to take lightly. You should have said something a long time ago.”

Then she leaned over and being careful not to touch my nose, gave me a motherly hug and kiss.

“I love you son and remember now, no secrets.”

I went to bed early still popping Advil to ease the throbbing pain in my shoulder and the discomfort with the broken nose. It had been set of course but it hurt like hell. Then I started thinking about the team and I just hoped my absence wouldn’t turn out to be the missing piece we couldn’t replace. With all that going on in my brain it’s no wonder I didn’t sleep very well.

Our league opener was against T. F. Brown at home on Friday night. In spite of having a veteran coach they had struggled during the preseason and came into our gym still looking for their first win. I liked their coach, Nick Roberts was a good friend of Coach Edwards, and when he came down to our bench and wished me good luck and a quick recovery I was even more impressed. His sincerity was obvious. He was a hall of famer in more ways than one.

I had watched Luke, Blake and Robby sit on our bench in street clothes and thought I knew how they must feel. I didn’t. This was going to be the longest three weeks of my life. I would try my best to be a good warrior but I’m not very good at faking anything. Frustrated just doesn’t come close enough to how I felt as I watched my teammates go through warm up’s. It was more than that. Frustration yes of course but I was also mad mostly at myself. I should have been more alert and I’ll never understand how I didn’t see the Mason City kid coming. Life can sometimes be changed in a matter of seconds, or a brief lapse in concentration. I’ve found out it’s not easy to stroll along without a care and let life come to you.

I told myself never to relax and let my mind wander unless I was in a place I couldn’t get hurt. Like sitting on the couch in front of the big screen TV watching a game. Then the horn sounded, the team hurried to huddle on our sideline and listen to Coach Edwards instructions. I stood behind the starters and tried my best not to feel sorry for myself.

It wasn’t easy.

Jimmy had taken my place but Coach E made it clear that Tommy and maybe even Ruff would spell him when he needed some bench minutes. I knew he would be up to the task and I also knew we had enough firepower to win without my twenty points. That’s what I thought.

Brandon would be the ‘center’ in the Squirrel Cage offense and Ruff had spent time during practice there as well. He was a plus twenty-point scorer for the frosh team last year before he was called up to the varsity. He had a knack of finding ways to get the ball into the basket and he had proved that often enough. I felt like between Brandon and Ruff the Squirrel Cage would still be a great change of pace.

The first quarter was a back and fourth battle. The Falcons didn’t look to me like a team without a win as they matched us basket for basket. Their best player was only a junior. He was a six foot two shooting guard and he had awesome range. His name was Kris Kurtin and he has started since he was a freshman. He had most of their points in the quarter. Ruff’s backboard jumper from the lane tied the score at the buzzer and the scoreboard flashed 18-18.

Coach Edwards mixed things up a bit to begin the second quarter and went with a smaller lineup. Ryan Schmid and Robby exited and Blake and Tommy took their place. We didn’t have a true post player in the lineup, which usually meant Squirrel Cage, but Coach E stayed with our regular offense with Ruff in the post.

Our speed and quickness with this group proved to make a quick change of pace in the action. Our athletes were just too quick for the Falcons and our man-to-man full court pressure caused turnover after turnover. Coach stayed with this group the entire quarter and we filed into the locker room with a fourteen-point lead at 44-30. We had slowed down their shooter with a combination of guys doing the job on defense.

Everyone played in the second half and with a comfortable lead of eighteen heading into the fourth quarter Coach E cleared the bench.

The young guys played like young guys, some good and some not so, but the final of 82-62 was solid.

When the game ended Kris made a point of wishing me a fast recovery.

“Eric, I’ve tried to pattern my game after you. If I can come close to what you’ve accomplished I’d be thrilled. Get well and we’ll see you at our place.”

I was very happy about the win and how we played. But, from the bottom of my heart, I just wanted to be back out there with my teammates and my friends.

II

My teachers gave me a break and postponed my final tests for a week. I spent a quiet weekend watching TV and studying a little. Cezar kept most of the well wishers away so I had a lot of nap time. I did put the last fine-tuning on my term paper for history. I would turn it in on Monday.

The shoulder was hurting less and less each day, but I still couldn’t raise my arm above shoulder level. I decided not to push it but I still had to be careful lying down as I couldn’t comfortably lie on that side. The bandages had been removed from my broken nose but it still made me look like Santa without the white beard.

Mom escorted me into Dr. Wolcott’s office on Tuesday morning. I was the youngest person in the room, by about fifty years. I’m not sure if it’s standard procedure but they let mom accompany me into the eximanination room.

Dr. Woolcott was wearing his work clothes and looked quite different than he did when I met him in the hospital. Somehow he looked younger.

“Son, I’m going to fiddle around here checking heart rate and listening to the blip of the value. It won’t hurt so I want you to just relax and follow orders. Sort of like listening to your coaches.”

I took a deep breath when he asked and he prodded and poked around my heart and also up and down my back with his stethoscope.

His expression never changed and although I was anxious I didn’t feel scared.

After awhile he called his nurse into the room and asked her to set up the echocardiogram procedure.

“This usually takes about twenty minutes. You’ll be able to see your valve pumping blood on the monitor,” as the nurse rolled it next to the examination table I was lying on.

The nurse stuck some tabs on my chest with cords running up to a machine here and there and applied some kind of gooey stuff to an instrument that looked like a snub nosed microphone, which she handed to the doctor. He asked me to turn on my side; fortunately it was my right and healthy shoulder. Then he proceeded to press the ‘gismo’ hard against my chest and I immediately saw the image flash on the small screen.

Mom had moved so she could also see the screen and we both stared not knowing anything about what we should be looking for. The valve was easily recognizable and you could hear a ‘swoosh’ as the

blood was pumped from the heart through the valve, where the oxygenated blood would flow through the arteries to all parts of the body.

“That’s your aortic valve Eric, it’s the one that pumps blood to the rest of your body. When we’re finished here I’ll need to look at the printout, but it shouldn’t take long.”

The procedure took a little longer than I thought it would, closer to a half hour I think. After that the nurse handed me a towel to wipe off the gooey stuff. I was sweating and a bit uncomfortable and asked for a drink of water, which she quickly provided, after which I put my shirt back on and Dr. Woolcott asked us to wait while he left to read the results.

Mom and I didn’t say much at all; I think we were both too anxious to chance saying something stupid. We stared at the walls and it seemed like forever before the doctor returned to the room. Looking back I wished he wouldn’t have.

“I want you both to know there is a problem here. Eric you’ve got two. The periodic rapid heartbeat is an issue that we can deal with later.

The bigger problem is with the aortic valve itself. It’s leaking, not closing all the way, so some blood doesn’t get pumped through to the arteries.

It’s a bit complicated but the long and the short is at some point you’ll be needing a valve replacement.”

I looked at mom, tried not to tear up, and then turning to the doctor asked, “Oh my God, heart surgery?”

I wasn’t ready for that kind of news. I think I’d just assumed that everything would be OK. Hell, I was an athlete. I ran up and down the basketball court and the football field and the baseball diamond. How could this be happening?

Mom broke the silence.

“How serious? How soon?”

“Your son is a young athlete. He’s in excellent physical condition, but this is something that can’t be put off very long. I would say the sooner the better. My suggestion is for us to monitor Eric very closely during the remainder of the basketball season, but to take a very serious look at doing surgery this spring. One of the very best heart surgeons in America works in Omaha. His name is Dr. Charles. I’ll be in contact with him soon to let him know the situation. With this much lead-time I’m sure he’ll be able to work Eric in.

This hit me like a ton of bricks. Questions ran rampant through my mind. What about my college career? Would I be able to play football

after heart surgery? How soon would I be able to resume playing sports?

Then I completely broke down. I leaned back, put my hands, bad shoulder be damned, over my eyes and bawled like a baby.

TEN

“NOWHERE TO RUN”

MARTHA REEVES

I

Our game on Tuesday was at Lakeside. It would be a stern test as they came into the game one and zero in league and with only one loss on the season. They were always well coached by Jim Fountain, who had been there for a while.

I had almost no desire to go, but that would be selfish and I managed to put my personal despair on hold and I joined my teammates for the drive up the road. Everyone wanted to know how the trip to see the cardiologist went and I down played it as best I could.

“Hey Eric,” piped Luke, “What did the medicine man have to say about your heart?”

I shrugged and told him I’d talk about it later. He gave me a funny look before moving on to the back of the bus. I sat near the front contemplating how to tell coach Edwards the news. By the time we reached Lakeside I still had no idea of how to approach the subject. I tried to look happy and be just one of the guys, but I felt a lot of eyes on me and it didn’t help.

As we sat behind the JV bench watching the game Coach Edwards sat beside me. This wasn’t his usual spot but I know he wanted to talk.

“How you feeling son,” he asked?

“I’m fighting a few more issues than the shoulder coach.”

“I thought that might be the case. Want to talk about it? We can go into the locker room for some privacy if you want.”

With that I got up and Coach followed. When we got inside the locker room was empty and we sat facing each other in a couple easy chairs.

“Coach, you need to know there’s a bigger problem than just my shoulder. I’m just not sure at the moment how to handle the news but I don’t want to be a distraction to our team in any way.”

“I understand son. Tell me what you can.”

“The cardiologist ran some tests and the results were pretty shocking.”

I had to pause, take a deep breath and looking down at the floor said, “I’m going to need heart surgery coach.”

When I looked up the tears were streaming down my face. It took me awhile, and Coach let me take my time. Finally I said, “I’m scared to death and I’m going to need some help with this.”

Coach Edwards, who I admired as much as any man, simply put his hand on my shoulder, and said nothing. I shed my tears and he let me. Finally the flow of tears abated some and I looked up.

“Just in case you didn’t already know son, you’ve got an entire community that will help you through this. We’ll all be there for you. It won’t be easy but this is a fight you won’t have to go through alone.”

At that moment the door opened and Luke and Tommy stepped through the door. One look and Luke grabbed Tommy and they retreated back through the door leaving us alone again.

“Coach the doctor told me I could finish the season, but I should get ready for surgery in the spring. He told me they would monitor my progress for now to make sure all was OK.”

He nodded his head and said, “The first thing is we’ll make sure this shoulder and the nose are totally healed before we let you back on the court. Then we’ll play it by ear as to how soon and how much we’ll let you stay there.”

“I don’t want to be a burden and I don’t want to be a sideshow either. I think I’d like to speak with the team about all this, but tonight isn’t the right time, maybe tomorrow before practice. I should be ready by then.”

We stood and he gave me a hug that I really needed.

“Eric you are like a son to me, if you need a shoulder to cry on, please don’t hesitate, day or night, anytime just come running.”

We didn’t move for a long moment before I finally backed away and said, “Can I take some time now. I really don’t feel like standing in a corner with everyone wondering what the devil is going on.”

“I totally understand Eric. Take as long as you want.”

“I’ll sit on the bench coach. I’ll be OK when the game begins.”

When I got back out to the gym I caught Luke’s eye and motioned for him to join me. He knew something big was going on but didn’t pry.

He was smart enough to let me tell him what was happening in my own sweet time.

We walked into a hallway out of the way of people. It took me a moment to gather my thoughts while he waited patiently. Finally I gathered up the courage to lay it out for him.

“Luke, it’s serious. After the season I’ll need heart surgery. It’s a problem with the aortic valve and it needs to be fixed as soon as possible.”

He didn’t say a word, just stepped close and gave me a hug while tears slid down both our faces.

“I’m going to talk to the team before practice tomorrow. I’ve told coach I don’t want to be a burden or a sideshow. There will be some kind of plan. I don’t know what just yet, but I will by tomorrow.”

“And, whatever it is you’ll have a team, a school and a town supporting you.”

“Thanks Luke, there’s nowhere to run my friend.”

II

The game started off well enough. After the first quarter it was a tie game at 21-21. Ruff had begun hot and had ten of the twenty-one. The problem was we were in foul trouble, especially up front. Ruff had three, the third one on an offensive foul with only ten seconds left on the clock.

Robby had two and so did Ryan Schmid.

We looked to me to be out of sync a bit in the second quarter and certainly lost our shooting touch. The Pelicans hammered the ball inside for points in the paint while we, with our two up front guys on the bench, missed more than usual from the parameter. By the halftime break Lakeside had forged an eight-point cushion but we’ve been in worse holes. I felt like Coach E would get things smoothed out during the break and we’d be fine. I felt totally helpless and out of it, so I tried to stay in the background and out of harms way.

When the third quarter began Ruff was still on the bench as Tommy replaced him. Jimmy had gone scoreless in the first half and looked unsettled to me. I hope he wasn’t pressing too much and trying to hard to fill the void left by my absence. I thought he might be and I told him to relax and let the game come to him.

“Your shot will begin to fall as you get into the flow. Don’t force things.”

Coach changed things up by playing our ¾ court press, something we hadn’t shown since the tournament. But, the Pelican guards were

experienced and they didn’t panic. The pace of the game slowed somewhat as they took their time nursing the close to double-digit lead.

When their point guard hit a three pointer at the end of the third their lead had stretched to eleven at 55-44. Our forty-four was by far the least points we’d put up over than span of time in the season. It didn’t look good.

Then Luke got hot, hitting two threes and four free throws in a two-minute burst of energy. The lead was down to six at that point. It went back and forth from there until Brandon hit a banker and got fouled on the basket. His free throw cut the margin to three with 2:46 left on the clock at 63-60.

Their gym was alive and our fans were up and urging the Comets on. The place was rocking and the clock wound down. We exchanged two points and then three pointers as the Pelicans nursed their advantage. With forty-five seconds on the clock Ruff got loose inside for a lay-in and then Blake stole the inbounds pass and fed Robby for two that put us up by one. There was a quick time out by the home team and we huddled around coach for instructions.

Once again they worked the ball inside and at the buzzer their center missed a close in attempt, but he was fouled. It was Ruff’s fifth.

The gym was silent as he stepped to the line. First shot rolled off the rim and out. The second hit the back rim, bounced off the backboard and fell through. Tie game at sixty nine and overtime.

With Ruff on the bench we lost our leading scorer and somehow our spunk. They forged ahead quickly by four and after Luke cut it to two they went on a six point run. The eight point lead proved to be insurmountable and at the horn the Pelicans had the win and we headed to the locker room with a one win one loss league record. I felt sick.

The bus was silent on the way home. I think everyone was trying to put a good spin on things but having a hard time doing so. My injury and my news didn’t help of course. I hadn’t told anyone but Luke about the coming surgery but I think everyone knew something was up. No one said a thing to me on the ride home and that was probably good. I’m not sure what I would have said to help.

We had Fort Brenner at home on Friday and they had a win over Brown after starting the league season with a loss to Washington. So it would be two one win, one loss teams squaring off. We would have two days to sort things out and I know Coach Edwards and his staff would be hard at work trying to work through things.

Luke drove me home and we didn’t say a word until he pulled up in our driveway.

“Eric, this nightmare you’re living right now will eventually give way to better times. Keep you head up and know you’ve got a ton of people you can turn to for support. I hope I’m number one on that list.”

I nodded to my friend and said, “Thanks buddy. See you tomorrow.”

He was right and I knew that. It just didn’t help much at the moment as my teenage dream life took a hit it wouldn’t be easy to recover from.

ELEVEN

“FLAWS”

ALAN JACKSON

I

I spent my prep period on Wednesday in the library looking up everything I could on the aortic valve and eventually open heart surgery.

As I was reading and looking for more material to help educate me on the subject the thought crossed my mind about something called the internet.

Down the road, word has it; there will be a place to go with your own computer that will have everything on it. Easy, click a button and up pops immediate and totally encompassing information. Sure, dream on people. I don’t think library research will ever be replaced by something in cyberspace. And be quiet please!

At lunch I met with Coach Mack, Coach Edwards and Coach Vincetti. I told them exactly what the doctor told me and wanted there input as to what to say to my teammates and how we should handle all the questions that will more than likely come up in the next few days.

We had a good discussion and we were all pretty much of the same opinion. We needed to control rumor central by making a definite statement. But we should also ask everyone to respect my privacy and not to expect me to answer a million questions.

There was some thought about a message during the morning school announcements. But, I vetoed that idea.

“I don’t want to act like someone special and to have everyone feel sorry for poor Eric. I just want to be a normal student as much as possible.”

We finally agreed on making a statement to our local newspaper which would come out tomorrow. Coach Mack would make those arrangements.

Then I touched on what would happen after surgery.

“Coach,” looking at Coach Mack, “I’m not sure about baseball. Of course I will want to play but I don’t want to rush back too soon. I’ve got to think about the fall and football at Nebraska.”

“Son, if you can play, even a little, that would be great. But, I’ll never force you. Your doctor should determine when you’re ready to play again.”

I still wanted the basketball team to be the first group I spoke with.

We had decided for that to happen before practice and we all agreed to keep on that schedule.

Coach Edwards gathered the entire squad, varsity, JV and frosh. I stepped to the front and just told the truth.

“Guy’s I’ve had some bad news. They’ve discovered an issue with my heart and as soon as basketball is over I’ll be having open heart surgery.”

There were a few gasps, from those who were not in the know, and it was stone silent as I continued with every eye focused directly on me.

“I can finish hoops season, as soon as my shoulder heals, which should be two or three weeks. They will monitor my situation and if necessary cut my playing time. But, as of now the doctor doesn’t think that will be necessary.”

I went into some detail about an aortic valve transplant and what I knew about recovery time. Then I finished with this; “I bleed Comet blue guys and I’ll give everything I have in me to help our team defend our league and state championship. Just bear with me if you will. Treat me no different please. Let’s just move on and enjoy being teenagers with the best coaching staff in the state.”

With that I finished and for a moment no one moved or said anything. Then Luke came forward, gave me a hug and about fifty basketball players did the same. By the end I had shed more tears but I didn’t care.

In the evening I got some more phone calls. First was J. R. from Mississippi.

“Oh my God, Eric I heard the news. Is it true?”

I told him all I could and assured him the doctor had said I would be sound by fall and football at Nebraska would be OK. We spoke for about half an hour and he promised to keep in touch.

“If at all possible I want to be there for the surgery my friend.”

“You’ve got a bed for sure.”

The next call was from Coach Knight.

“Eric, I heard the news and let me say first you are young and fit, it won’t be a walk in the park, but you’ll be fine.”

He went on to tell me about a player some years ago who had played for him after open heart surgery.

“The kid never slowed down. So I know it’s a bump in the road son, not a dead end.”

Finally I heard from Coach Osborne.

“Eric, I’ve heard the news, but let me tell you I know Dr. Charles and he’s the best heart surgeon alive. You’ll be in good hands. And to ease your mind, your scholarship will still be waiting.”

Finally I asked mom to screen the calls. I didn’t really want to talk about it any more.

“The only one I should probably take is from the local sports editor.

Coach Mack said he would call tonight.”

He did and I told him everything. He assured me there would be an article in tomorrow’s paper and probably on the front page.

II

By noon on Thursday I was almost ready to hide. People are so nice it’s sometimes almost too much. My teachers, every one of them, made it plain they wanted to be updated if necessary and wished me well.

Maybe Mrs. Murtry said it best.

“Eric let me tell you something about heart surgery. It’s a piece of cake. So don’t be expecting anything special from me. We all have flaws, but yours can and will be fixed.”

Then she looked at me and said, “Like hell.” And, gave me a huge hug with the applause of the entire English class behind us.

The next two weeks were a kaleidoscope on display. We were great one game and awful the next. We were to be brutally honest a total mess. A complex pattern had developed in our play, and inconsistent would be kind. We beat Fort Brenner and South Catholic but in between lost to Prep and Washington.

My emotions were pretty much equal to our play on the court. I felt humbled when coaches and players from the opposing league teams offered their heartfelt thoughts. But, at the same time I was confused as to what my role should be and the frustration showed. I wasn’t proud of that and couldn’t hide that fact.

One day after practice I sought Coach Edwards advice.

“Coach, I’m so frustrated it hurts. Can you give me some advice on how to handle all of this?”

One of the reasons Coach E is respected so much is his thoughtfulness when dealing with adversity. He didn’t disappoint.

“Eric, you’ve pretty much had a silver spoon in your mouth your entire high school experience. You haven’t had to deal with much adversity and that rarely happens, in sport and never in real life. You need to accept that reality, let things get back to normal and until that time try your best to relax.”

I shook my head in agreement thanked him and headed for the door. Before I got there, I turned and said, “Coach that really helped.

Thank you.”

He smiled and waved before disappearing into the coach’s office where Coach Prather was waiting.

Coming home from a disappointing loss to Washington Robby sat down next to me. He doesn’t look well and he wanted to confide in me his concern.

“Eric, I just feel awful. I think something’s wrong. I can’t seem to breath easily, my temperature fluctuates dramatically and I’m tired all the time. I think I need to see a doctor.”

I told him he should run, not walk, to his doctor first thing in the morning. He told me he would.

“Robby, give me a call as soon as you hear anything.”

He promised to do that.

It was between fifth and sixth period when he called.

“I’ve got a viral infection that is probably pneumonia. The doctor took some blood tests and examined pretty much everything from heart rate to pulse to checking my prostrate. I felt like a Guiney Pig.”

“I know how you feel. A little bit of that goes a long way. What did he say about playing?”

“He want’s me to sit for a week for sure and I’ll go back in on Friday for some more diagnosis.”

That wasn’t good news at all. We certainly had piled up enough medical leave to last two or three years. The good news was my shoulder was getting better rapidly and Dr. Soda thought I probably could play Friday versus North Marian.

“Eric, I’m going to clear you to play but the wise move is to wait until Tuesday. Give it one more game and the weekend. You’ll be ready to go on Tuesday for sure.”

North’s only win was over T. F. Brown but without Robby or me it might be closer than we would like. I asked if I could dress for the game?

“Just in case Doctor Soda”, I pleaded.

He nodded yes as he headed out the door.

I had practiced since Monday, but only on a limited basis. Coach E

wouldn’t let me get involved during ‘team’ time but I did all the drills without a hitch. During one of the defensive drills that can get physical now and then Ryan and I were matched up. He was talking it easy and not being aggressive enough, in my opinion. I stopped the drill when I turned to him and said, “Dammit Ryan, don’t treat me like a baby with kid gloves. I’m fine,” I yelled and then immediately felt like crap.

“I’m sorry Smitty. It’s just the frustration built up over the last three weeks.”

“No problem Eric, I totally understand.”

He was such a good guy. It’s never easy to transfer, especially in the senior year, but he’s handled it great and everyone likes Ryan and his brother a lot. Their mom and dad never miss a game and couldn’t be better parents.

Later, in the shower, I told him again I was sorry for the outburst.

We did the closed fist bump but I stopped short of giving him a hug.

“I’d hug you Ryan but our buddies here might get the wrong impression.”

Everyone laughed and of course Luke offered his piece of advice.

“Oh hell guys now’s a good time to come out of the closet, don’t you think?”

TWELVE

“PHOTOGRAPHS & MEMORIES”

JIM CROCE

I

I must admit it felt great to participate in pre-game warm up’s, even though the chances of me playing were slim and none. Just to be an active part of our team again put a huge smile on my face.

Coach Foote, the pepper pop head coach at North, made it a point to welcome me back as we crossed paths prior to the game.

“Son, we’re all rooting for your good health. I heard, of course, about the upcoming heart surgery, and let me tell you from experience, it won’t be fun but when it’s over you’ll feel like a frisky colt.”

I thanked him and then asked, “So Coach, you’ve had a heart operation?”

“I did, ten years ago now and I feel about twenty years younger.”

“Cool.”

The game turned out to be a mis-match. North was not as competitive as they have been the last couple years. They started three sophomores though which boded well for the future.

Their best sophomore was also there best player. Greg Black was a six foot six forward. He was very athletic and despite his lack of bulk he was also a wide receiver and punter in football. He led North in scoring and rebounding. His future was very possibly unlimited.

We ran up a big halftime lead and everyone but me played in the second half. I really didn’t care, but it was awesome to be back in uniform. Ryan Schmid and Ryan Ruff lead us in scoring with eighteen points apiece while Jack dominated the glass with rebound after rebound on missed Mustang shots.

The final was 83-56. It was a good solid performance and I hoped it was a springboard for a successful run during the second half of the league season. I thought if we could run the table we had a good chance to advance to the tournament. Our three losses in the first round were to the three teams ahead of us in the standings. Lakeside leads at 7-0,

followed by Washington at 6-1 and Prep at 5-2. We were sitting in fourth place with a four win, three loss record.

The after-game get together at the Doorway didn’t last long, probably because this same group was set for a Saturday night party at Val’s.

“Eric,” she said as the group of girls were leaving, “You’ll be with us tomorrow night, right?”

“Count me in Val. I’m back in the swing. Watch out I might just put on a show for all you girls.”

“That’ll be the day.”

I was home earlier than usual and mom and dad were in the den watching TV. Dad looked up and said, “Come on in son. Sit with us for a while. We’ve got some things to discuss.”

“Let me grab a coke first,” and I hustled into the kitchen, grabbed a cold beverage, and returned.

I sat down and dad switched off the TV.

“Your mom and I have been talking about how to handle all this news with our extended family.”

He paused, looked like he might tear up, and then continued, “We’d like your input son. Be honest and tell us what you think.”

We discussed different scenarios and finally agreed on a plan. I really wanted to be the one to deliver the news and suggested I sit down over the weekend and make some phone calls.

Mom wanted to speak directly with her sister and I agreed that was the best. But I wanted to talk to her brother one on one. I felt like we were pretty close and he would want to hear it from me.

About the time we finished and turned the TV back on the sports news was just coming on. They showed clips of most of the league action and during the coverage of our game the announcer opened his monologue with this little gem.

“Crater played it’s last first round league game, an easy win over North, and the last game without their star Eric Lewis.”

They were showing clips of the game in the background and he continued as the camera swung to me sitting on the bench.

“He has the doctor’s OK to play beginning next Tuesday at T. F.

Brown.”

He went on to say this, “The defending champ Comets will need a good second half run to make the playoffs but with their star do back they are poised to do just that.”

Mom said, “That was very nice, don’t you think?”

Then I smiled my biggest smile and said, “Guess it pays dividends to treat the media as friends.”

We chatted more about this and that and finally I said, “Bed time for me you guys.”

I nodded at Dad and gave mom a hug. Then I paused a moment, as Dad was standing up, turned and gave my father an even bigger hug.

“Thank you Dad for being more than just a father.”

He paused a moment, stepped back while still holding me by the shoulders, “It’s moments like this son, that makes you realize how fortunate you are to have such wonderful kids.”

I took a second to look at the family portrait over the fireplace and turning to face my parents said,

“I think we need more photographs and memories. Love you both”, and headed upstairs to bed.

II

The party at Val’s was, as usual, a gathering of friends that weren’t afraid to razz each other about anything and everything. I was sitting in the living room with Val, Karen, Jackie and Dominick. Our discussion had turned to college choices and everyone chipped in. Val and Jackie were both heading to the University of Iowa and Karen to Iowa State.

Dominick would be heading back to Vienna and wasn’t quite sure where he would get his college degree.

“I’m looking in to college’s in Austria but I haven’t closed the door to attending one here in the states or Canada.”

It was Val who asked if they had football in Austria and Dom filled everyone in on that.

“In Europe sports are not affiliated with schools. Everything is

‘Club Sport’, join a club, pay your dues, buy your own equipment and if you’re good enough, play.”

“Really,” questioned Jackie. “You don’t have scholarships then?”

“No. It’s pretty much pay to play, but you still have to make the team and be good enough to be a starter. And most teams bring two or three American players to bolster their lineups.”

“How does that work”, asked Karen.

“They’re players who have finished their college eligibility and aren’t good enough for the NFL, but want to continue playing.”

“Wow, now that sounds like a great deal,” I said.

“And the Americans get paid.”

That got my attention. “Let me get this straight. The local Austrians have to pay to join the club but the American guys get paid.

Doesn’t that cause some problems?”

“Not really, the addition of former college players makes us better, and just like here in the states everyone wants to win.”

“Our American players get flight over and back, housing, gym membership, some meals and a salary.”

“Sign me up,” I said. “What’s the name of the team?”

“The team I’ll play for is the Vienna Vikings. They’ve been pretty good but the best team in Austria is from Graz, in southern Austria near the Italian border.”

“Hey,” said Val, “Isn’t that ware Arnold Schwarzenegger is from?”

“Yes it is,” offered Dom.

“Do you know him,” asked Jackie.

“Ha, ha. Nope. He runs in a different crowd. But, I’ll say this, the man has donated a lot of money to sports in Austria and specifically in Graz. I’m a bit surprised that don’t call them the Graz All Blacks, like the Rugby team from New Zealand. Schwarz means black in English.”

I asked, “What is their nickname?”

“They’re called the Giants and they’ve been the giants of Austria American football for a long time. You know they call it American football don’t you,” looking around the group?

“How come,” asked Val.

“I can answer that,” I said. “It’s because football to the rest of the world is what we call soccer.”

The party lasted tell after mid-night. I spent some time downstairs watching bad pool being played and chatting with the guys. It seemed like forever since I felt this good and didn’t want to make people think I was avoiding anyone.

“Hey Eric, tell me more about this heart surgery deal,” asked Bill Fay.

I was tired of talking about it but didn’t want to be an ass, so I told him all I knew.

Finally I said, “To sum it up, the surgery isn’t routine but I’ve got the best surgeon in America. He’s the equivalent to a football All-American first teamer, or a Hall-of-Fame coach.”

By the time I had finished there were five or six of my best friends in the group listening closely. It was Doug Rollins who brought some humor to the mix.

“Hell Eric, what you’ll have is a scar that every girl in school will want to take a close look at. I can just see them, “Oh Eric, show me your scar,” as they pull your shirt off and unbuckle your pants.

With that the group broke up and most headed home. I stopped to give Val’s mom a hug and thank her for being such a good hostess.

“Stop it Eric, you know you’re always welcome at the David home.”

THIRTEEN

“HERE IN THE REAL WORLD”

ALAN JACKSON

I

For me Tuesday night couldn’t get her fast enough. Coach E had let me go full tilt in practice on Monday and i felt great. The shoulder didn’t hurt at all, the nose was healed and Pete Rock had checked my heart rate and said, “Your good to go Eric.”

Coach Roberts was standing by the visitor’s locker room when we arrived and we spoke for a moment.

“Welcome back Eric. Now don’t go off and score forty on us OK?”

“Ha, ha. I don’t think Coach Edwards will let me shoot that much.

Just don’t play a box and one on me,” I answered.

“We don’t believe in those gimmick defenses son. And besides that we don’t have one player that could keep up with you.”

I thanked him and then he leaned close to say, “Seriously I’m really happy to see you back in uniform. And as for the upcoming surgery you should know that everyone here will be praying for you.”

Wow, that was really nice. And you could just tell he was one of those coaches who wanted the best for every kid and not just those wearing Falcon Red and Blue. Coach Edwards had shared with me somewhere along the way that Coach Roberts had lost a son a few years ago. It was a car accident I think and I couldn’t even fathom what losing a son would be like.

They might be 0-7 in league play but they didn’t act like losers.

They hustled, they competed and they acted like winners act. We had them outmatched of course so to be leading at the half by twelve was no surprise. I had started a bit slow, I missed my first three shots, but caught fire in the second quarter. Three behind the arc hoops and a couple fast break lay-ins loosened me up I think.

The final was 85-67 and I couldn’t help but think they would win a game or two during the second half of league play. I shook coach

Roberts hand after the game and told him how impressed I was with the attitude and effort.

“Thanks Eric, I’ll share that with our kids. Good luck the rest of the way.”

Lakeside was up next. We had them at home on Friday and would try to avenge our loss in the first round. It wouldn’t be easy as they had won on Tuesday and would arrive at our gym with an eight win no loss league record.

I spent Wednesday morning in Dr. Woolcott’s office. He had scheduled me in on Wednesday’s for weekly check ups. He wasn’t taking any chances that the valve issue would take a turn for the worse.

After going through his routine and asking some questions he checked the heart rate one more time and then pronounced me fit and ready for action.

“Good luck on Friday Eric.”

That was finally a bit of good news and low and behold shortly after I got back to school I got some more. It was Kim who I hadn’t even said hi to forever. Kim was one of those positive people who nearly always left you feeling good. She was just entering the office area as I was checking back in.

“Hi Eric, got a minute for an old chum?”

“Of course, any time for you. How’ve you been? Other than avoiding me I mean.”

We found a table to sit down away from prying eyes and ears. She was looking as pretty as ever.

“What’s on your mind Kim?”

“I just wanted to catch you up and also get the real story behind all your injury issues.”

She told me Peter was still being loyal and I could tell by the smile on her face that it meant a lot to her.

“You know sport,” she said with that grin that could captivate an audience of skeptical sexist men, “If you need someone to hold your hand I’m available. Mainly because I know you’re not a typical horny teenager.”

“Do you talk like that to anybody,” I asked with a shrug and a smile?

“Well let’s say I know you well enough and leave it at that. Come to think of it though I don’t even know your favorite color. We should have covered some of the basics you know.”

“It’s just red.”

“What?”

“My favorite color, just red.”

By the questioning look on her face I needed to be a bit more specific.

“You know, when your approaching a street light and as you get close the light turns red just before you can get past. Just Red. It happens to me on every light I approach. My light karma is awful.”

“You mean like choosing which line to stand in at the grocery store?”

“Yep, wrong one every time. And never stand behind a gray haired old lady.”

“Chauvinist.”

“I plead guilty, but don’t tell grandma.”

With that the get your butt to class bell sounded and we promised to

keep each other in the loop.

I needed that. Kim is a good friend and it had been too long since we chatted. I’ll make sure to rectify that situation.

We had lost in overtime to the Pelicans on their floor and they had pretty much dominated everyone else in league play. Washington had given them a decent run but in the end had gone down by ten.

They were a confident group and a veteran team as well. Both their guards had started a year ago and their inside guys were all varsity letterman. They returned four starters from a season ago. For us, Jack would again be in the middle, as Robby still wasn’t cleared to play. But, he confided in me that it looked good for next week.

The stands were full and everyone anticipated a good competitive game. I was anxious to show the red clad birds we could not only play with them, but just maybe give them a flying lesson. Coach Fountain had his team playing with confidence, no surprise, and as the game began they showed that and more.

Once again we began a bit slow, while they started off hitting four of their first five attempts. But, midway through the first quarter our inside guys started controlling the boards giving us second chances when we missed, and limiting them to one shot attempt. In a two minute span of time we out scored them ten to zip and took a twenty one to nineteen lead to the bench at the end of quarter number one.

Coach went with the Squirrel Cage to begin the second quarter and they had no answer. I was on fire and when they doubled me the outlet pass to an open wing player was easy to make. Half way through the stanza Coach Fountain called time and we could hear him yelling at his guys in obvious frustration. We led at the time by twelve at forty-one to twenty-nine. The halftime score was an even bigger margin; Comets fifty-two, Pelicans thirty-five.

We stayed in the Squirrel Cage to begin the third quarter, but with Ryan in the middle. I moved to the wing and Jack took a seat. They still didn’t have an answer, and Ruff showed his scoring skill hadn’t diminished. He had a nose for the basket that kid. I got three behind the arc attempts and all three found the bottom of the net. By the end of the third quarter we were cruising along up by twenty-six. No one expected this.

We broke the century mark with three minutes still to go and our starters on the bench. Blake, Tommy, Brandon, Joel and Madison finished it up and the final was 102-71. A decisive win for the good guys I thought. Ruff and I both finished with twenty-three points and obviously there were a lot of other players in double figures, seven to be exact.

II

The weekend flew by with a lot of TV time. We had half the team visit, it seemed, and everyone was in an upbeat mood. Robby said the doctor had cleared him to rejoin the team and that would make us whole for the first time in weeks.

The usual college teams were dominating the airwaves.

Georgetown, coached by John Thompson, with monster Patrick Ewing in the middle, was the favorite to win it all. But, not by much over Houston led by Hakeem Olajuwan. Kentucky was hovering around as was Virginia and Coach Knight’s Indiana Hoosiers.

Our den served as the team video theatre and mom was the hostess serving munchies that didn’t last long on the serving platter.

“Mrs. Lewis,” said Brandon, “These brownies are to die for.”

“Suck up,” offered someone as everyone gave the rookie some razzing.

“Listen boys, I want you to know I take compliments very seriously,”

as she offered Brandon another dark chocolate and still warm from the oven, treat.

Brandon just smiled and said, “Can I move in to your guest room, Mrs. Lewis?”

“Only if you promise to mow the lawn every day.”

The group broke up shortly after Houston blew out Southern Methodist 88-62.

On Sunday we had a quiet day. After church in the morning we spent time cleaning and reorganizing the garage. Like most people’s, ours was loaded with stuff and there was no way a car could fit. Mom wanted us to re-box some things and move them to the shelves on the side and out of the path for her sports car.

“Winter will be here soon and I don’t want my birthday present to feel the brunt of the bad weather.”

Dad had surprised her with a beautiful BMW. It was used but it sure didn’t look abused. The blue color gleamed and it was spotless in the interior. The bad news is she wouldn’t allow me to test drive it for her.

I spent the afternoon with some homework while the boys watched more TV. Paul was a straight A student and didn’t need to work as hard as I did to maintain that high level. I don’t think I ever saw him doing much homework. That was a luxury I couldn’t afford. By evening after another family meal we settled in the den to watch an episode of “Happy Day’s”, which was in its last season.

I loved ‘the Fonz’, played by Henry Winkler. Every time the high school drop out offered his famous line, “Sit on it”, I couldn’t help but crack up. In the sit-com he lived above the Cunningham’s garage, much like Cezar does. In fact sometimes we all call him Fonzie, especially if he offers some inane observation. And Ronnie Howard was perfect for Richie Cunningham, the lead in the series that took place in the innocent 1950’s.

It was a relaxing evening, which was in contrast to the tension we’ve had these past few weeks, trying to deal with my adversity. I almost felt normal again.

Luke called about nine o’clock and we talked for a long time. It got pretty somber when he mentioned, “You know it was pretty close to one year ago that Hal had his accident.”

Hal Nagel, a great distance runner and a valuable sub on our basketball team was tragically killed in a farm tractor accident. He was a quiet kid that was just beginning to come out of his shell and into his

own. Everyone loved him and his death put a pall over our school for weeks.

“That was a horrible time Luke. It seems like we’ve battled through some tough life lessons here in the real world doesn’t it?”

“Sure has. I didn’t want to bring up bad memories but I guess I just wanted you to know that we got through it and we’ll get through your deal as well.”

“Hey, I know that my friend. Now let’s talk about ‘Happy Day’s. did you see tonight’s episode?”

“I did and I think they should start a new show next year. Call it

‘Happier Day’s’, because that’s what we’re going to have for the next couple months.”

Before I went to sleep I read another chapter in Fredrick Forsyth’s latest thriller, “The Fourth Protocol.” It’s about espionage and spying during the cold war between the west and Russia. It was a typical fast passed Forsyth novel.

I got hooked on his books after reading “The Day of the Jackal,”

about an assassin hired to kill then French president Charles de Gaulle.

It was followed by another thriller, “The Odessa File,” first published in 1972. It was about the adventures of a young German reporter attempting to discover the location of a former SS concentration-camp commander.

Many of his books have been made into movies. I’ve never missed one and never been disappointed. In fact, I’ve seen ‘ Jackal’, which came out ten years ago, at least three times, and I never miss it when it’s on a TV rerun on Sunday afternoon at the movies.

My eyes got heavy after a chapter, and I was soon fast asleep.

When I woke up an hour or so later the light was still on and the book was still on my lap. I marked the spot, turned off the light and was in dreamland in moments.

FOURTEEN

“JOB DESCRIPTION”

ALAN JACKSON

I

For the first time it what seems like forever, we had a full contingent of varsity players on the floor during practice. There were a lot of smiles. It was going to be a luxury to have both post players healthy at the same time. Robby was our inside scoring threat and Jack was a vacuum cleaner on the boards. Tommy and Brandon gave Ryan and Ruff quality backups while Blake and Jimmy offered the same at the guard spots.

As frustrating as it was, in a way our adversity improved our team.

The backup guys had all played starter minutes during our exasperating time, and now it would be a plus as we entered into the five game home stretch. Our goal was to win all five and with some help catch Washington and Prep. Two teams from each league make the state tournament bracket and as defending state champs it would be great to have the opportunity to defend.

First up was Fort Brenner who we had defeated at home during the first round. They would offer a sterner challenge while playing at home and we needed to be ready. Coach Edwards set the bar high during our pre-practice meeting and challenged us to go to work. We did. Practice was at times intense which was good for everyone, and at times more relaxed as the staff put us through our practice routine.

The bus was quiet as we headed to Fort. Our game faces were evident and you could feel the concentration level was spot on. As we filed into the visitors locker room we had a bounce to our step that winners seem to carry with them.

“It’s go to work time guy’s,” said Luke, “Comet time.”

That said it all. We sat behind the bench during the first half of the junior varsity game, and then spent time shooting during halftime. When our JV guys returned to the floor we headed for the locker room.

The gym was almost full when we came out to take the floor. Our small rooting section had the usual support group in attendance. My

‘Yeti’ friends were all in the front row and also had their game faces on display. The rally was doing their thing and we bounced through the pre-game warm. We all wanted to get off to a good start, put some doubt in the Bulldog minds and show the league we were back.

Coach Hitchen, the Bulldog mentor, wished me good luck and welcome back.

“Thanks coach. It’s great to be on the floor in uniform. That street clothes time about killed me.”

We missed our first three shots and Ruff, Ryan and Robby in order grabbed the rebound and scored. We were quickly up six and on our way. Luke hit a jumper after driving the lane and our pressure forced another turnover. I hit a wide open three and the foul shot after I was decked. It was a not too usual four-point play and put us in command at twelve to two.

We weren’t yet a well oiled machine but our relentless effort paid off with second chance scores. On defense Robby clogged the middle, blocking two shots, while we gave them no easy shot attempts. At the quarter we were up by a twenty one to ten score. The eleven point cushion held for most of the second quarter, and then we closed the half on another run. This time eight to zip and fled into the locker room ahead by a comfortable 47-28 score.

Halftime was all business. Everyone had played in the first half and coach E wanted us to understand this was a statement game. I know he would be kind to his good friend at Fort, but he also wanted the rest of the league to look at the score and begin to realize the Comets were back.

By the fourth quarter all the starters were on the bench rooting on our teammates. The young guys showed no mercy and continued to increase the lead. But then again, they weren’t young guys anymore.

Brandon was especially hot while Blake ran the show from the point like a starter. Well, he had been and certainly in our minds was just that.

The final was 98-56.

Coach Hitchen shook my hand and said, “Wow, you guys looked like the team everyone thought you’d have all year long. Keep it up Eric and good luck.”

Class act.

The buss ride home was not nearly a quite as the ride to Fort. Our JV guys had also won so everyone was happy. By the time I walked in the front door the family had the TV on and the sports news was just beginning.

“How about a snack son,” asked Mom.

I nodded yes and settled in the easy chair in front of the TV.

“You guys were awesome,” said Danny as he moved to his usual spot on the couch.

The sports guy led off with our game. They showed quite a few highlights while the reporter heaped praise about our showing.

“It looks like the Comets are all the way back. They played with a full varsity roster for the first time in weeks and the final score should indicate to Prep coming into the Crater gym on Friday won’t be a walk in the park.”

Dad, in his low-key manner, reminded me that we had a score to settle as Prep had defeated us in a four-point game the first round.

“I don’t think I’ll need to remind anyone about that Dad. We’ve got pretty long memories.”

II

During speech class on Wednesday Mr. Madson pulled me aside for a quick chat as the rest of the class was settling into their assigned seats. He told me that his brother had gone through open heart surgery and had come through with flying colors.

“I visited him in intensive care and was shocked at how awful he looked. Heart surgery isn’t fun for anyone Eric. I just wanted to let you know that, so before you even begin to feel sorry for yourself understand it won’t be easy for family and friends either.”

Then he smiled, patted me on my shoulder and headed for the lectern to begin class.

He was probably my favorite teacher and I loved speech class. I took it because I had always been a bit nervous while standing up in front of people, and I felt like speech class would help me in that regard.

It certainly had done that, and I found that once I relaxed I really enjoyed the challenge.

I had spent a short time at Dr. Woollcott’s office for my annual Wednesday check up and everything looked good.

“Eric you check out fine. I can tell the valve is trying to do its job but just by listening I can hear the sound of leakage. Let me ask a question. Do you get any tingling in your toes?”

“Yes, I do doctor. Is that normal?”

He assured me it was and I had nothing to worry about.

“It’s just another sign that the valve needs to be fixed. But it’s not an alarm. If something unusual pops up we’ll address it when it happens. In the mean time we’ll just continue these Wednesday visits.

Oh, nice win last night. Now put the clamps down on Prep. They need a big dose of reality.”

“We’ll be ready doctor. They have our full attention.”

We had two excellent practices and by Friday we were focused on Prep and ready to compete. As usual, when we faced St. Christopher Prep, the gym was full early in anticipation of the contest.

The Crusaders were wearing their green and gold visitors uniforms and looked sharp. Maybe it was the green basketball shoes that Adidas had provided for them. They wore contrasting gold socks. I thought their game outfit was slightly over the top but only because it made a statement that said, ‘ We’re just a bit better than you.’ Maybe not, but I’ve been told somewhere along the line that ‘Every good athlete has a mean streak’, and it was just my way of finding a reason to dislike our Crusader friends.

I shook hands with their best player as he lined up next to me on the center circle. Jack More was first off a scorer. He could really shoot the basketball. Last season he had led the Crusaders with a plus twenty point scoring average and he was close to that number again this season. Jack was about six three and smooth. He played their ‘off guard’ position and it would be my task to try and slow him down, my job description for the night, while at the same time continue on my own scoring pace.

We had a height advantage on our opponents and probably for that reason Coach Edwards had reminded us to get the ball inside first. He felt like they would need to sag their guards down to help and that would leave Luke and I open on the parameter. He was right.

Robby was doubled the first time down the court and fired a quick pass to Luke who hit a short jumper. The next possession the same thing happened but this time I was open behind the arc. I didn’t miss.

Both Ryan and Ruff had baskets as they tried to match up without help.

That wasn’t going to work in their favor as both our guys could score.

Jack missed his first two attempts as I was in his face both times.

He got loose off a post pick for a two pointer but after that I anticipated the screen and fought over it keeping him from getting a good look at the hoop. Ryan switched the one time I didn’t and blocked a jumper in the lane. Jack looked a little unsettled to me, especially after Ruff took my pass and hit a three pointer from the corner. Our rooting section exploded and Coach Perk called his first time out. There was exactly 4:00 left on the clock as we took our seats on the folding chairs in front of our bench. We led by the score of fifteen to four.

In the second quarter they rallied a bit with help from their leader, who hit his first three of the game and the Prep center completed a three point play with a free throw after being fouled by Jack Bryant who had replaced Robby to begin the quarter.

But we didn’t let them get any closer and once again with a late run closed the first half up by fifteen. The clock read Comets forty-four, Crusaders twenty-nine. The flashy uniforms didn’t look quite as sharp.

Maybe it was the droop in their shoulders as they headed into the visitors locker room.

“Wow, you guys are really good.”

It was Jack’s opening remark as we stood next to each other while Luke was hitting two free throws after being fouled to open the second half of play.

I just smiled, nodded my head and held my position as Luke released the ball. I rarely said anything on the court but I think my demeanor spoke for me. Then I hit my next three shots. Standing at the foul line after being fouled on my last score I couldn’t help notice Jack shaking his head in frustration.

When the horn sounded we had put a good licking on Prep. It felt really good. As I shook hands with Jack he said, “Two losses in a row buddy. I don’t like the feeling.”

He was referring to their loss on Tuesday to Lakeside. We were now a game up on them and only needed to catch Washington to gain the number two seed out of the CVL.

FIFTEEN

“FAST MOVIN’ TRAIN”

RESTLESS HEART

I

Prep did us a big favor on Tuesday night by beating Washington, and at the same time we put a whipping on South Catholic on the road.

That brought us to within one game of the Colonials. If we could defeat them at home on Friday we would be tied for second with one game remaining. If we finished in a tie there would be a one game playoff on a neutral court.

The final over South Catholic was 88-71. We were playing like I thought we would all season. Of course our adversity kept that from happening. Now totally healthy again we were looking like the defending champions we were. All five starters finished in double figures and Tommy Keck did as well, making it six players to reach that mark. It was a sign of a team with quality depth.

Wednesday I had my weekly check up and every indication was the valve leak was under control and nothing to lose sleep over. Practices went well and by Friday we were ready. Washington would come to town not wanting to fall in to a tie or to lose two games in a row. But we were on a roll so they had better bring their A game.

Luke and I watched the freshmen game right after school. We had a good team and the young Colonials couldn’t keep up. For frosh games there are usually only a few spectators and you can hear everything loud and clear. The bouncing basketball makes a noise you can’t hear with a large crowd, so does the squeaking of shoes across the gym floor.

Coaches can’t get too animated as everything they say can be heard on the top row of the bleachers. In a way it’s sort of spooky.

There was just enough time before the J.V. game began to get a quick bite to eat, so we jumped into Luke’s car and made haste to our favorite dinner. No one was there so we got the full attention of the waitress. She was a Crater grad and knew everything that happened in school and I think in town.

“Hey, what can I get you two boys?”

She was trying her best to sound older than she was as she took our order.

“I’ll get this right quick you two.”

After delivering our order she strolled back and asked, “Eric, I heard about your heart problem. Is it true you’ll be needing surgery soon?”

“Not until after the season is over.”

Then before she could comment I continued, “The doctor told me just not to eat too much fried food. That’s why tuna fish has become my best friend.”

“But you ordered a burger and fries.”

“Sometimes my memory gets a bit hazy.”

“Oh, you’re just playing with me,” she said as she hustled to take an order from a new customer.

“I’d like to play with that,” offered Luke as he rolled his eyes.

“I thought you were wanting to save it until you were married.”

“You didn’t believe me when I said that did you? Why do you think I want to get out of Iowa for college.

Fortunately our food arrived and we moved on to devouring our pre-game meal.

We walked into the gym just as the J.V. game was beginning, but before we took our seats behind our bench Coach Barry from Washington wanted to chat.

“I wanted to be the five hundredth guy to welcome you back and wish you good health.”

He shook my hand and continued, “Just kidding of course but I do want you to know I’ve told my players if they want to act with class to just watch you play.”

“Coach Barry that’s as good a compliment as I’ve ever received.

My parents and our coaches demand respect for the game and for our opponent. I try to do that.”

“There’s no doubt that you’ve accomplished it son. Good luck tonight.”

The basketball coaches in this league are all a credit to the profession. I think Coach Barry, Coach Roberts and Coach Hitchen will all be in the state hall of fame when they decide to hang up the whistle.

Of course Coach Edwards will get there first.

No one has mentioned it lately but I know for a fact our coach is contemplating retirement after this season. He’s certainly of retirement age, and at the end of last season there were rumors about that.

Obviously he chose to stay one more year and all of us on our team are grateful. And, to a man we all want him to go out with another state championship to his credit.

First we’ve got to get into the tournament. This game, for us, is a play-in game of sorts. If we lose we won’t be able to finish second, so you could rightfully say it is a must win. Of course the Colonial’s know that and you can bet they’ll want to put an early end to our season.

After our shoot around during halftime of the J. V. game we headed for the locker room. Mom, Dad and Danny were just arriving. Paul was already here.

Mom caught my attention and motioned to me.

“Coach Knight called and said to be sure to send you his best wishes. We had a nice chat. He’s really easy to talk with for a celebrity.”

“I’ll try to remember to give him a return call after we win tonight.”

“You’d better son or no snacks.”

II

We opened the game in our Squirrel Cage offense and I got in to the flow right away. I think we caught them a bit off guard and they alternated three different guys trying to guard me. I hadn’t had a big scoring night all season and part of that was because we had so much depth. The other, was I missed six games with the shoulder injury. This was going to change tonight as the hoop looked huge to me. In the first quarter I didn’t miss a shot as we rushed to a twenty-five to fifteen lead. I had eighteen of our twenty-five.

The Colonials looked a bit shell-shocked and we keep the pressure on the entire second quarter. I rested for a bit and Ryan took my spot in the Squirrel Cage. It didn’t slow our momentum a bit as we continued to pad our lead. Our gym was rocking and we could do no wrong. Brandon and Jimmy got hot during their time on the floor and we cruised into halftime leading by a very comfortable fifty-five to twenty-nine margin.

“Let’s keep the hammer down guys,” offered Coach Edwards as we sat on the benches in the halftime locker room. All the coaching staff reminded us of our commitment to good defense. We had stayed in our suffocating man-to-man and threw in some full court pressure as well.

Luke sat next to me and whispered, “Keep firing buddy, let’s see if you can get to forty.”

That wasn’t my objective but when you’re hot, you’re hot. I stayed that way as coach let me go the entire third quarter. With ten seconds on the clock I was at the free throw line after being fouled on a drive to the hoop. I did my usual two-bounce routine, looked at the front rim, took a deep breath and knocked it down for my fortieth point of the game. The buzzer sounded and Jimmy bounced on to the court. I took a seat and watched the entire fourth quarter from the bench.

I had no idea what my point total was until glancing at our rooting section I saw Doug holding a large white board with 40 scribbled in large numerals. Then he led an impromptu cheer as our fans chanted forty for Eric. Wow, I shook my head but had a very large smile on my face as my teammates gave me a few choice comments.

“Looks like you’ve got our fans focused buddy,” said Luke as waived a towel in my face. Trying to cool me down I think. I just lowered my head and laughed. God it was fun playing on this team. I loved these guys.

Coach Barry told me when we passed during the end of game hand shake routine, “Eric, that’s about as good a shooting display that I’ve seen in all my coaching years. We might see you again in a week and somehow I’ve got to figure out a way to slow you down son.”

I offered my thanks, of course, and tried to find Mom and Dad in the mob scene that saw fans, friends, players and faculty enjoying the moment.

“You really had it tonight son,” said Mom while Dad, standing behind her, reached around and offered his hand.

We chatted for a while and others offered congratulations on our win. Officer Holm waved as he passed by and said, “Welcome back Eric.

Looks like we’re the team everyone envisioned before all the injuries hit us.”

Coach Hurd and his wife said hello and finally I broke away and headed to the locker room. It was a pretty happy faced bunch of teenagers stripping off sweat soaked uniforms and heading to the shower. We had earned this win with a great effort. We completely took

them out of their offense and comfort zone with a stifling defense. I scored forty but to tell the truth it was my four steals, five rebounds and defensive effort that put a bigger smile on my face.

The scene at the Doorway was as you would expect after a big win.

Everyone was in a festive mood. There were a few more people than usual and included some of last years guys as well. The twins, Toby and Thomas Heart-Zoller were there and so was Scott Peters.

It was Scott who said, “Eric, you were your awesome self tonight.

That was fun to watch.”

We chatted about college for a bit and he told me it was great and that he had pledged a fraternity and was totally in to the college scene.

“I do miss hoops and I’m thinking of walking on next season. I’m taking a basketball class from one of the assistant coaches and he has encouraged me to think about it.”

About that time Toby came over to our table and we had a good five minutes or so sharing stories. The twins were enjoying their time at the University of Nebraska Kearney, and had a Friday night off, so were able to come back to town for a quick break.

I asked how they were adapting to a new coach and the entire college sports environment. His answer surprised me a bit as he told me he really missed the closeness we had at Crater.

“College guys don’t seem to have the same understanding of bonding like we did. Maybe it will improve as we move on.”

By the time our conversation ended he was wishing us all good luck and good fortune. I had a chance to speak with Thomas as well.

Those two friends were a sight for sore eyes. I just hoped when this season came to a close I could feel the same about this team as I had after our state title a year ago. All the signs were positive.

As we emptied the Doorway it was a happy crowd heading into the night. I was pretty tired and when Luke dropped me and Cezar off it didn’t take me long to head to my room.

“You OK,” asked Mom as I waved to her?

“Just beat Mom,” I said in return.

She got up, grasped me by the shoulders, and looking me straight in the eyes said, “I love you son. Now remember what I said after we found out about your heart, no secrets.”

“I’m just tired. This was a pretty fun night but to tell the truth it sort of wore me out. Sometimes I just want to get on a fast movin’ train to the hospital and get that darn operation over with.”

“So do I son, so do I.”

SIXTEEN

“PRESSURE”

BILLY JOEL

I

Coach Roberts T. F. Brown Falcons did us one huge favor on Tuesday night. Their first league win of the season eliminated Washington from the tie with us for second and made a playoff game unnecessary. We were headed into the state playoffs as the second seed from the Central Valley League.

I asked Coach Edwards if it would be appropriate for me to give Coach Roberts a call or at least send him a thank you note.

“I think that would be a classy move Eric.”

He gave me the phone number and first thing I did when I got home was to call and leave him a message on his answering machine.

We were in the kitchen enjoying a late night snack when the phone rang. It was almost midnight so I was surprised and a bit frightened.

Who call’s at midnight with good news?

Surprise, surprise, it was coach Roberts returning my earlier call thanking me for my message.

“Eric, Coach Roberts. I know it’s late but I took the chance you might still be up celebrating.”

“Thanks coach, I want to tell you how grateful our entire team is for you guys stepping up at just the right moment. It sure takes the pressure off.”

“We’ve been getting better and better and to tell the truth I thought we just might sneak up and surprise them. Our kids were awesome. We got ahead early and never panicked. Very satisfying.”

We chatted for another five minutes and then he wished us good luck in the playoffs.

“The way you guys are playing now it won’t matter where you play.

You’ll be fine. I think baring something unforeseen you’ll be spending the spring break in Iowa City defending your state championship”

I said my goodnight and hustled up the stairs to bed. As I lay there still conscious and thinking about our game I couldn’t help but smile.

We had throttled North Marian by twenty-eight. The starters didn’t play much in the second half so our reserves and young guys got a lot of mop up duty time.

Joel Linger and Madison Peel both took advantage of their court time and sort of put on a show. Joel hit three monster three’s and Madison dished the ball like a veteran. It was a lot of fun to watch.

Those two plus Brandon would give a new coach something to build on, if coach Edwards retired as anticipated.

Then my heart suddenly began racing. I hadn’t had an episode of rapid heart rate since last summer at it brought my attention quickly back to my health.

Dammit, slow down. Just wait for another month before you cause me even more problems.

Those were the thoughts racing through my brain as I counted the heartbeats. I was up to one hundred eighty per minute and beginning to get alarmed when just like that, it slowed down. Quickly it was back to normal and soon after I was fast asleep.

In the morning I told Mom about the PRH, periodic rapid heartbeat, and she looked alarmed. But I told her it didn’t last long and I would be sure to mention it to Dr. Woolcott at our morning appointment. That seemed to ease her mind.

“Mom, I’ll be fine. We’ll get through this. I know how you worry about your oldest son, but let me tell you I plan on being around for years.”

She gave me a big mother hug and we headed out the door.

Danny had caught the bus earlier and Paul got his usual ride with Scott Shank, who had become his best pal. Scott was a sophomore, golfer and although a pimp-squeak a good player. He was a shade over five-five and Paul was probably six-one. They were an odd looking couple as the midget jumped behind the wheel and the seemingly older one the passenger seat.

Mom drove and I day dreamed a bit as we headed downtown for our Wednesday appointment.

I told Dr. Woolcott about the incident of rapid heart beat last night and he didn’t look too concerned.

“That’s a problem that can be remedied easily with a non evasive day surgery. We’ll go in and burn the electrodes regulating heart rate and you’ll be home for dinner.”

He did his usual thorough inspection of my aortic valve and asked another question or two about how I felt. Then he put away his stethoscope and pronounced me fit and ready to go.

“I’ve spoken with Dr. Charles and he told me he would free up time on his schedule. He’s a real ‘Husker fan so he’s got a vested interest in you my boy.”

“Did you tell him it could be another month before our season is over?”

“I did and he said no matter the time frame he would adjust his schedule if need be. He’ll be your heart surgeon son, and let me say you’ll be having the very best.”

II

We had finished league play with an eleven win three loss record, second to Lakeside’s thirteen and one mark. Given all our injury issues over the course of the season it was a triumph of sorts to battle back and secure, with Brown’s help, the runner-up league spot. We would play on the road but at least we weren’t sitting home watching. And the really good news was my surgery could be pushed back another week, maybe two and if we make it all the way to the semi-final, even longer. That didn’t stress me at all.

A playoff game on the road was new to us but the good news was we were healthy for the first time in a long span and we had a ton of playoff experience. Three of our starters, Luke, Robby and me were returning starters on last year’s state title team. No one we would play could boast of experience like that.

The first win, on Friday, was easy as we throttled North High of Sioux City by twenty. We had a very balanced attack, which may have thrown them off their game. It was obvious the way they began the game that they thought the key to victory was to slow me down. They began the game in a box and one defense with a six-four athlete guarding me and following me like a shadow.

His name was Pete Strand and he was also their leading scorer.

He was a senior and also a track athlete. He was almost as tall as me and I could tell pretty strong.

Coach quickly went to our Squirrel Cage attack and we seemed to score at will with open jumpers while my shadow and a friend or two tried to keep me from scoring. I did get a couple rebound buckets and hit a long three off a break at the end of the first quarter. Ryan Schmid had taken advantage of their defense and led us in scoring with ten.

The second quarter wasn’t much different and we quieted their crowd pretty fast. By halftime I think half their fans had left and didn’t return once play resumed for the third quarter. By the fourth it was mop up time and once again our second string guys looked like they could start for our discouraged opponents. We put a merciful ending to their season by a eighty-five to sixty-one score. We had met the first road trip challenge and now faced what would probably be a much sterner test at Lincoln High of Des Moines. They had won by a healthy margin in their first round game on the road.

After the game Pete Strand took time to congratulate me.

“You are a tough guy to guard Eric. I did my best but obviously it wasn’t enough. Good luck against Lincoln. Hope you win it all again.

And, don’t worry too much about that heart surgery. My father went through the same thing. Now he plays eighteen holes a day.”

I thanked him and wished him well.

Since both Lincoln and us were number two seeds from our respective leagues the higher ranked team won the home court advantage. That meant us being ranked in the top five, through reputation I’m sure, despite our six loss season record, would be the host.

Lincoln was also somewhat of a sleeper, coming second in their league but playing their best basketball at the right time. Lincoln was a bit like us in that they had some issues during the season that kept them from dominating their league. One of their best players missed the entire first half of the season with eligibility issues and another good player was shelved for a long period of time with a mysterious virus that kept him physically unable to play. He’s now healthy and the eligibility issue has been solved to Lincoln’s benefit. They would be a very challenging group of athletes coming off a big road win. I didn’t think they would be intimidated at all. That proved to be exactly on the money.

The first half was a back and fourth affair. They started in a zone defense and we started somewhat cold from the field. For some reason to begin the second quarter they went man-to-man and we handled that better. They liked to run so it was an up and back game with a lot of fast break opportunities. That was to our advantage as our depth certainly paid off. Brandon, Tommy and Blake all contributed big points during the second quarter. At the half it was a tie game at forty-four a piece.

Back and fourth, up and down the court we raced. Tie at the half and tie at the third quarter break. I had gotten into a good rhythm during the quarter and I think gave us some confidence. They were good, but so were we. Playoff hoops can be exciting and no one was going to leave this game early. We were putting on a show.

Their star player missed the first end of a one-and-one free throw attempt in the last minute which keep their lead at two. Ryan Schmid posted up his defender and hit the tying two pointer with a John Wooden bank shot that would have made the former UCLA coach a happy man.

Then we both missed chances close to the end and once again at the end of regulation we were tied. Overtime.

It took two overtime’s and some divine intervention for us to prevail.

They had the last chance to win in regulation but missed an open shot that would have sealed the deal. Then in the first overtime they led by six with two minutes to go but went scoreless from that point and we managed to tie the game again. Robby hit the tying points with :03 left on the clock with a soft jumper from the key.

They wilted somewhat during the second overtime period as our depth finally became a factor. They lost their two top scorers to five fouls, which took the wind out of their sail’s, and we won going away by ten much to the delight of the overflow crowd.

SEVENTEEN

“LITTLE BITTY”

ALAN JACKSON

I

Next week was spring break and we were heading back to Iowa City to defend our state championship. Not many people would have given us much of a chance to do that a month ago.

It was a long road to the final four and how we managed to travel the path was pretty amazing. Our season had been a roller-coaster ride to say the least. The pre-season schedule turned out to be a bit more than we could handle. I couldn’t help but think back to re-live the bumpy road. I was reminded that first we had been bit by the injury bug big time. Our point guards, Luke and Blake both missed the first five games and Robby and his backup Jack accompanied them on the bench in street clothes, Robby with an ankle injury and Jack with an ISAA sanction.

Then just as we got healthy I went down with that shoulder injury which kept me out of the next six games. Of course the bad news about my faulty aortic valve, was only discovered when Dr. Soda and the emergency room doctor suspected something wasn’t right.

After a short resurgence Robby went down again, this time with a viral infection that had everyone scared. By the time we became whole we were just barely fighting for second in the league and a playoff spot.

Our regular season record was sixteen and six and it took Washington being upset by at the time winless Brown in their final game.

The loss kept them from forcing a playoff game with us for the league number two spot. At the same time it helped us secure the second place playoff position with an eleven win three loss record. Prep and Washington trailed at 10-4. We would travel for the first and if we managed to win, probably the second playoff game would also be on the road. That turned out not to be exact but the two wins got us back into the state tournament semi-final.

The Tuesday night game meant we were back at school on Wednesday. Three more days until our break, and three days of practice for the up coming challenge that faced us. In a way it was nice to have these days without a game looming on Friday as is the usual season schedule.

As we waited for the semi-final game the mood at school was upbeat but no one was over confident for sure. Most of my classmates were frankly surprised that we had made it this far and I must admit to having serious doubts myself. The only person who thought we had any chance was my younger brother Paul, who was always our best supporter.

“I’ve got you winning by ten in the semi and cruising into the final.”

“You might be the only person in the entire city to be betting on the sky blue Comets from little bitty Crater.”

Dubuque Senior High was a prohibitive favorite. They were led by the state’s leading scorer. Billy Strawberry did it all for the Scarlet and Columbia Blue Rams. He was electric and had a flair for the dramatic that defied description. He was known as somewhat of a ‘Hot-Dog’ by his opponents. But, as a talented, if a bit of a showman by his fans. His twenty-six point scoring average was seven points higher than his closest rival, who would be me, but who’s counting.

We had excellent practices and then took the weekend off. Our plan was to leave on Thursday for the Friday night game. We would practice at the Hawkeye pavilion Thursday afternoon and have a walk through Friday morning.

Coach Edwards changed things up a bit by matching roommates differently. He had each of the seniors room with a young player. He thought it would help our young guys understand what needed to be done in preparation. No fooling around, it was all business. The seniors had all been through it before and I for one thought coach had hit on a very good plan. My roommate was Joel.

Once again family was staying in the same motel just off campus and after practice on Thursday we had a chance to visit and instead of a team meal we had dinner with family. Cezar was with us so there were six at our table.

The mood was upbeat and we talked about nearly everything but the game ahead. And no one mentioned anything about an upcoming date with a heart surgeon. After a leisure meal we walked the short distance back to the motel and went our separate ways.

“See you in the morning,” said Mom as I headed for my room.

I smiled, gave her thumbs up and blew her a kiss. We had been through some anxious moments in the last month together and although we’ve always been close I felt like Mom had become my sole mate. I just hoped that someday I would be as lucky as dad and find the right woman.

Joel and I talked for a while. The TV was on but neither of us paid much attention to it. As it closed in on eleven o’clock I said its time for me to hit the rack. I handed him the remote and jumped into bed.

Before I could get comfortable he asked me if he could say something.

“Of course, what’s on your mind?”

“I just wanted to tell you how much fun this season has been for me. The way you seniors helped me adjust was awesome. I don’t know if I would have been able to play at a varsity level without you guys understanding. And just to practice with you and see how you handle yourself has been a real eye-opener.”

“Well thanks and really?”

“Really. I’ll never be the player you are Eric, but I can act like you act and I’ll never treat a rookie like a rookie. That’s a valuable lesson to learn and I can’t thank you enough.”

With that I nodded to him and closed my eyes.

“Sweet dreams buddy. Sweet dreams.”

II

As we went through our warm-up’s I couldn’t help but notice Billy doing his thing. He was throwing up 3’s from way beyond the arc and every time the ball splashed through the net his personal cheering section, in the front row of their designated student area, yelled in unison…”Threee”. He had a huge smile on his face and would sometimes, while the ball was in the air, throw up both hands imitating the referee signal for a three point shot. When he did that his rooting section exploded with high fives and a few back flips that made the group look like a circus act.

As the teams lined up for the center toss to begin the game Billy looked across the circle at me and winked along with a thumbs up sign. I had played briefly on a summer travel team with him and found him actually to be a breath of fresh air. Hidden behind his sometimes

irritating road show was a bright kid who just loved the spotlight and playing the game. I gave him the same wink and hand signal just before the referee tossed the ball. Game on.

It was a back and fourth affair with both teams putting on an offensive show. Billy started off like it was just warm-up time hitting his first five three’s as his entourage went nuts. Fortunately Robby and Ruff were equal to his display of marksmanship both hitting their first three attempts. I managed a couple three’s as well and at the quarter break the score was dead even at twenty-six apiece.

It didn’t slow down much during the second quarter as both offenses continued nearly un-abated. We filed into the locker room at the half up by one at fifty two-fifty one. The pace of the game never slowed and for many it must have been a highlight reel on display.

There’s wasn’t a one man show, although no one would doubt who their star was as Billy controlled the tempo and delivered some eye-popping assists to go along with his marksmanship, mostly from behind the three point line.

I’m not sure how both teams managed to keep up the frantic pace but maybe we were both having so much fun the ‘rat-ball’ like tempo never came to a halt. Back and forth we battled during the third quarter and into the fourth. Finally with a minute left it was obvious it would come down to the last seconds. We led ninety-two to ninety and had the ball. The clock showed :57 seconds when Ruff was fouled on a shot attempt, but uncharacteristically he missed both free throws. They rebounded the second miss and raced down court.

Billy missed a floater in the lane but their power forward banked in the rebound for a tie at ninety two with :41 seconds left. We worked the ball around in our squirrel cage offense before I got loose and drove to the basket. The ball caromed off the rim as I took a hard foul that knocked me to the floor. I was a bit unsettled and missed the first attempt but hit the second.

Then it got really exciting. They didn’t take long after a time out to set up the play. Billy took the inbounds pass and sailed down court before pulling up behind a nice screen. His short jumper missed and I fought off a couple of their guys for the rebound. Luke came to me and I handed him the ball and headed up court. He was pressed tightly by their point guard, who was somewhat of a pest on defense, but he didn’t have much problem dribbling the ball past the mid court line. Then he called our last time out and we headed towards Coach Edwards for last

second instructions. The clock read :16 seconds left in the contest. We were up one and had the ball.

Coach had Robby take the ball out and the design was to pass it into Luke who would come off a double screen by both Ryan’s. I was the second option cutting toward the hoop away from the screen. Robby’s pass was on the mark as Luke came around the screen and he began his dribble towards the top of the key. We were going to keep the ball and not shoot waiting for the expected foul. That never happened as their pest of a point managed to reach from behind and knock the ball in the direction of their basket.

Oh my I thought as I chased after it only to see Billy get there first and head towards the hoop. He was flying ahead of the pack of racing Comet players and then instead of laying the ball in for the winning basket he couldn’t resist one final show. He took off just past the free throw line and doing a 360 attempted to slam in the game winner. I had stopped near the top of the key and when the ball flew off the back rim it came directly to me. I grabbed the loose ball and held on for dear life as time expired.

During the after game handshake I tried to console Billy but he would have none of it.

“Win by the sword, die by the sword,” he said with a shrug as we hugged at mid court. I really did love the guy.

EIGHTTEEN

“ALL NIGHT TO GET THERE”

RASCAL FLATS

I

The final was to turn out to be a thriller that wasn’t decided until the final second. Maybe it was the final half-second. South Sioux City had beaten Kennedy of Cedar Rapids, the team we beat for last years state championship, in a relatively close contest. The City Cardinals broke it open with a late push to win by twelve at sixty-eight to fifty-six.

We had won the title a year ago but this was the first final for the Red and Black Cardinals. They came into the game with an eighteen game winning streak and an overall record of twenty three and two. Both of their losses came early in the season. However, since their second defeat they’ve been dominating everyone. No contest was closer than the twelve point victory in the semi-final. We had our hands full.

They featured a balanced attack with no apparent weak spots.

Their leading scorer was a power forward who looked more like a tight end than a basketball player. He was six-six and solidly built, a bruiser would be an apt description. In contrast their overall best player was a tall, slightly built string bean of a post. He played a high-post position most of the time and was deadly from anywhere around the key. Robby would draw the defensive assignment on their center while Ryan Schmid would try to keep their physical forward from dominating.

Basketball can be a weird game at times. Cold shooting teams seem to be shooting at a hoop with a lid on it. And, when it begins it spreads like a wild fire. Your best shooter misses and somehow everyone’s confidence wanes. To say our first half performance was dismal would be putting it kindly. I missed my first two attempt, Luke his as well. Ruff missed his first three and so it went. Smity held us afloat, but just barely. How he managed to keep the brute in check and have anything left for offense was sort of amazing. The first quarter ended with us in a ten to twenty six hole. The sixteen point deficit turned out to be the same at the half.

In the second quarter we warmed up a bit. Luke hit two threes and Ruff found room inside for six points while I contributed five on a basket and three free throws. We actually closed the gap to ten at one point and seemed to be gaining confidence, but then they went on a six point run while holding us scoreless, and again it was a sixteen point lead for the Cardinal.

They had stretched it to twenty and then with two minutes left on the clock during a TV timeout I felt like I had to say something.

“Guys, lets not lose faith. Dig a little deeper, this is our last game let’s not lose because of lack of effort.”

Then we reeled off eight points in a row, again cutting the margin to twelve. Robby scored inside and we stole the inbounds pass. Luke hit a jumper and they missed at their end. We raced up court and beat them with a three on two fast break effort that Smity ended with a dunk. They missed again, and I was fouled on a drive to the hoop and hit both free throws. Then just about the time we were gaining confidence again Robby got his third foul, and the big guy hit both free throws. We missed a short banker and Ryan fouled on the rebound. With four seconds left the brute hit both ends of the one-and-one to regain the sixteen-point advantage.

The gym was full with allegiance seemingly split evenly. South had a big contingent of students but then we always did. The contrasting Red and Carolina Blue colors of supporters were evident throughout the arena. There didn’t seem to be any pattern which made for some lively activity in the stands. There was a rather verbal Cardinal supporter sitting behind our bench up a few rows and he seemed to get delight in chastising our guys. I was the target of a lot of his abuse. During the last time out he let fire with another burst of criticism.

“Hey super star, you stink. Look’s like your bubble is about to burst.

Nebraska can have you.”

Luke looked at me and said, “I’d love to close that asshole’s mouth.

He needs to learn how to act. What a butt.”

“Let’s not give the jerk any satisfaction by reacting. Just ignore him or he’ll just get worse.”

About that time I noticed Mr. Sander talking to a security guy near the end of our bench. He was pointing at the loud mouth and it didn’t take a genius to know what he was asking security to do.

When the half came to a close and we trooped into the locker room I could see the security man talking with the abusive South supporter. It

would be interesting to see if anything changed when we came out for the second half. I passed by Mr. Sander as I entered our locker room and told him thanks for defending our right to play the game without some fool, behind our bench, acting like an idiot verbally abusing teenagers playing a game.

“Part of the job Eric.”

“Can’t be a fun part sir.”

II

Sitting in the halftime locker room all sort of thoughts raced through my head as Coach Edwards began his monologue. Day dreaming I didn’t hear the first few words but was quickly brought back to the present when he mentioned, “Guys we’ve been here before. It’s just a matter of putting the bad out of our minds and remembering the good.”

I had lost concentration, thinking about my upcoming heart surgery and feeling sorry for myself. Losing anytime stings but in the state final it’s a double whammy.

Fortunately Coach E got me out of my trance and I was able to focus as he went over mistakes that had made our full court press a non-factor. And then he covered our offensive ball movement. I didn’t know it at the time but both of them would become pivotal during our late charge to try and gain victory out of the jaws of defeat. The red and black South Sioux City Cards stood tall in our way.

I looked around the room and saw faces that were beginning to believe a sixteen-point deficit could be overcome. Obviously we needed to execute our game plan better and it wouldn’t be easy. South was on cruise control and their big center was having his way in the paint.

Robby was two inches shorter and to be fair the kid was really a good shooter.

“We’ll need help from you parameter guys when the ball gets in the key area. Our ‘Big’s’ are at a height disadvantage so it’s important to double down.”

Luke and I would both need to be quicker while both Ryan’s would need to give Robby help versus Glen Mory their seven foot center. He had actually done a credible job but the big guy, headed for Kentucky, was the real deal as his eighteen point first half would attest. Ryan

Schmid had kept their leading scorer under control, but the big guy was their bread and butter at this point.

By the time we headed back to the court we knew what our challenge was and everyone was determined to not go down without a fight. Hopefully South would cool down somewhat and if we could get off to a good third quarter beginning maybe we could put some doubt in their young minds.

The first three times down the court we missed and they didn’t.

Suddenly it was a twenty-two point deficit. Coach Edwards called time out.

“Well hell”, he rarely swore but this situation called for it I thought,

“This isn’t what I had in mind guys. Let’s relax but keep up the hustle and the effort. Don’t anyone throw in the towel.”

I couldn’t help but notice the loud mouth behind our bench was no longer there. I can just imagine how he would be raining down abuse on us now that the lead had grown.

The rest of the quarter we did a workmanlike job and managed to cut the margin back to the halftime sixteen-point hole we had gotten ourselves into.

To begin the fourth quarter we put on a quick run cutting the margin to less than double digits for the first time since the first quarter. Robby had seven points and I had six on two three pointers while they managed a couple two pointers and two foul shots. The margin was nine with seven minutes to go.

We exchanged baskets with no one taking advantage as the clock dwindled towards double zero. We had done a better job with our pressure and forced some turnovers which turned into points for the Comets. But their stands full of students were still riding high as we approached the two-minute mark. They were hopeful as the championship looked like a lock, but not anticipating the finish I’m sure.

As the clock dipped under the one-minute left to play mark we trailed by ten. Then at :55 I hit a three and we stole the inbounds pass. I hit another three and suddenly our fans were back into it and going nuts.

We were down only four with :39 on the clock. Time out Cardinal. No sign of the abuser behind our bench.

They beat our press but turned it over with a forced pass to their big man inside that Robby stole and fed the ball quickly to Luke who raced down court while I filled the outside lane ahead of the defense. His ally-oop pass was perfect and I slammed the ball through the hoop to cut

the margin to two. There was :26 left on the clock. The arena was ablaze with noise.

With :19 seconds left Robby was called for a questionable, in my mind, foul and the big guy hit both foul shots. Comets down by four, again. We had no timeouts left so we raced up the court needing to score a two or three to give us any chance. Ryan Schmid, who had been quiet since his opening quarter effort, rebounded a miss by Robby and scored a big time two, once again cutting the margin in half. There was only :11 seconds showing on the clock. Comets down two.

They had some trouble getting the ball across the mid court line and finally called time out with only five seconds left. All they really had to do was get the ball inbounds. We would have to foul making our desperate comeback fall short.

But then a small miracle happened. Ruff managed to tip the inbounds pass and the ball caromed off the hands of his opposite number and out of bounds. We had the ball with four seconds left and at their end of the court. The place was a madhouse. Rooting sections and the ten thousand plus fans were all on their feet. The noise was deafening.

We had worked on this situation many times in practice. Coach Edwards was a man who covered every possibility. We had no time outs so we always had our tallest player take the ball from the referee. There wouldn’t be a problem seeing the court. Robby took the ball and looked for someone to inbounds the ball to. We had a set play, and at the last moment with help from a nice screen by Ruff, I had broken away from my defender in the corner. But, the pass caused me to turn away from the basket. I was facing the bleachers but both feet were just inbounds.

I knew I would just maybe have time to turn and fire and that’s exactly what I did. As I released the ball it looked for a moment like it would be off target, but it hit the rim and bounced high up onto the glass backboard and as the buzzer sounded, while I was sprawled on the hardwood, it fell through the hoop with the winning three points. Comets 75, South 74.

I didn’t have time to stand and was mobbed by teammates, and because our rooting section was at that end, by what seemed like the entire Crater student body. All I could do was scream and try to stay alive under the mass of bodies. I thought I heard a familiar voice yell; “Never a doubt super star. Never a doubt.” It had to be Doug, but I didn’t care. I was enjoying the thrill of victory too much. Two thoughts dominated my

brain. First, I wondered what Mr. jackass would be saying about now and second, I couldn’t help but think why did it take all night to get there.

The scene in our locker room was a madhouse. Every player was jumping and shouting while I sat nearly in shock on one of the benches.

The noise finally abated somewhat as Coach Edwards asked for time to say a few words.

“Boy’s we’ve been through an amazing season. Injury after injury slowed us down and gave some people outside this program pause. But you never quit. And down by ten with less than a minute to go my bet is no one believed. Except a bunch of fighters led by the most amazing athlete I’ve ever had the pleasure to coach.”

Everyone turned to look at me. I was certainly not ready for what happened next. In unison our entire team began chanting Eric, Eric, Eric. I stood, put my hands over my head, looked around and gained eye contact with every teammate. Once again I couldn’t control my emotions and the tears wouldn’t slow. It was OK, sometimes crying time makes good sense.

Finally this awesome gang hoisted me on their shoulders and we stormed out of the locker room and back to the gym floor. Most of our rooters will still there and when they realized what was happening they all joined in the celebration.

Camera’s were clicking and people were screaming, Eric, Eric, Eric. I was overwhelmed with emotion and probably the proudest young athlete in all of Iowa. I forgot about the injury that kept me out for six games and the up coming major heart surgery and enjoyed the moment.

It’s one I’ll never forget.

EPILOGUE

“CRYIN’ TIME”

JULIO IGLESIAS

The team banquet was held on Tuesday night to an overflow crowd in the school auditorium. The state championship trophy was presented to the team captains and our principal and athletic director spoke. It was a festive occasion and our second state title this year. Our goal was to add a third, something we failed to do last year.

Coach Edwards was last at the podium. He thanked all the right people, sang praises to his assistant coaches and had a quip for each player that brought a chorus of laughter from the audience. His final words were typical of the man and no one left dry eyed.

“We had a special team and it was a team in every way. We had players who were injured and they rooted for their replacements. When the injured returned their the replacements rooted for them. No one pouted when they didn’t play, no matter the reason. When we lost we, as a team never placed blame, we fixed the problem. When we failed in our task we looked in the mirror and said we need to get better.

Learning those lessons on the court will serve these boys well when they become men. And they will all become good men. In life there will be failure, there will be disappointment, there will be frustration. It’s how you react to those failures, disappointments and frustrations that is the true measure of a man. These boys, your sons, your brothers, your friends learned those lessons on a basketball court. I wish them God speed and good will. I couldn’t be more proud of them if they were my own sons. Although in many ways they are just that. I’ll always be available to them. Until the day they put me in the ground I will be their coach.”

CAST, ‘FULL COURT PRESS’

MAIN CHARACTER, ERIC LEWIS: I was a three sport athlete in high school and as a freshman at the University of Oregon. I was a QB in both high school and college so having a three sport athlete and a QB as the main character made good sense.

I’ve had the great fortune to coach many great kids, but probably because of my background I’ve established a close coach/QB relationship with every one. Most, like me, were multi-sport athletes and of course so is Eric. From Bob Sotta, my first QB, to Eric Dungey, my last, they are all part of my lead character. Bits and pieces of each one show up in his personality, his humbleness, his intelligence, his talent and his character. Thanks boys, you made writing about Eric Lewis a joy.

CRATER PLAYERS:

LUKE ATWOOD, Mc Nary High and Vienna: LUKE ALWOOD

BOBBY COWAN, Evergreen High: ROBBY COWAN

BLAKE DUTTON, Lakeridge High: BLAKE DENTON

BRYANT JACKSON, Lakeridge High: JACK BRYANT

TOMMY KNECHT, Lakeridge High: TOMMY KECK

BRANDON LOILER, Lakeridge High: BRANDON LOY

MADISON PIHL, Lakeridge High: MADISON PEEL

RYAN RUFENER, Mc Nary High: RYAN RUFF

JIMMY SATHER,

Lakeridge High: JIMMY

PRATHER

MATT SCHMIDT, Mc Nary High: RYAN SCHMID

RYAN SCHMIDT, Mc Nary High: RYAN SCHMID

JOEL SINDLINGER, Lakeridge High: JOEL LINGER

OPPOSING PLAYERS:

PETE ANNESTRAND, Lakeridge High: PETE STRAND

GREG BROWN, Lakeridge High: GREG BLACK

CHRIS CURTIN, Lake Oswego High: KRIS KURTIN

JIM HURL, Willamina High: JIM HURLEY

ELDON JOHN, Willamina High: ELDON JOHNS

JACK MORRIS, Lakeridge High: JACK MORE

GLEN MORE, Klamath Falls High: GLEN MORY

BILLY NICKELBERRY, Jefferson High: BILLY STRAWBERRY

PETE ROMANO, Quincy High: PETE ROMO

ERNIE TURNIDGE, Willamina High: ERNIE TURNBRIDGE

K.C. WOODWORTH, Lakeridge High: K. C. WOOD

CRATER COACHES:

BOB EDWARDS, Lake Oswego High: COACH EDWARDS

KEITH HURDSTROM, LO & Lakeridge High: COACH KENNY HURD

CHARLIE NIPP, LO & Lakeridge High: CHARLIE NAPP

JIM SATHER, LO & Lakeridge High: JIM PRATHER

OPPOSING COACHES:

DAVE PAPPIN, Lakeridge High: COACH PAPP

NICK ROBERTSON, Beaverton High: NICK ROBERTS

WARREN SHUE, Lake Oswego High: WARREN FOOTE

CRATER FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATORS:

HERB DIRR, Lakeridge High: MR. DIBBS

MIKE LEHMAN, Lakeridge High School: MIKE TEHMAN

MR. MATSON, Lake Oswego High: MR. MADSON

MARIE MULLINS, Lake Oswego High: MARIE MULLIN

SCHOLASTICA MURTY, Lake Oswego High: MISS MURTRY

LETTY OWINGS, Lakeridge High: LETTY OWEN

BOB KRAMER, LOHS & Lakeridge High: BOB CRAMER

JOHN SANDERS, LOHS & Lakeridge High: JOHN SANDER

KARL WURM, Vienna Vikings: MR. KARL VURM

MR. MATSON, Lake Oswego High: MR. MADSON

MARIE MULLINS, Lake Oswego High: MARIE MULLIN

SCHOLASTICA MURTY, Lake Oswego High: MISS MURTY

OTHERS:

DEREK BUELL (WICKMAN), Mc Nary High: DEREK BULEY

DUSTY BUELL (WICKMAN), Mc Nary High: DUSTY BULEY

BRIAN CHARLES, Lakeridge High: DR. CHARLES

BOB GILL, Sports historian, Portland, Or: GILL BOBB

JERRY JOHNSON, LOHS music teacher: JERRY JOHNSON

MARK PIETROCK, L & C College: PETE ROCK

JIM PUTNAM, LO and Lakeridge High: DR. JIM PUTNEY

BOB SOTTA, Lake Oswego High: DR. BOB SODA DR. WOOLCOTT, LOHS Team Doctor, DR. WOOLCOTT

YETI’S

DOUG COLLINS, LOHS: DOUG ROLLINS

DON CRUICKSHANK, LOHS: DON CRICK

JOE DAHL, LOHS: JOE DALE

BILL FAHEY, LOHS: BILL FAY

FRIENDS:

MARIAN BLEW, LOHS: MARION GREEN

VALRIE DAVIDSON, Lake Oswego High: VAL DAVID

MARSHA GAGNON, LOHS: MARSHA GOODING

BILL HEDLUND, LOHS: BILL HEADLUND

KAREN KISKEY, Lake Oswego High: KAREN LISKEY

BOOMER REIF, BOOMER REED, Lakeridge High CEZAR SIMION, Romania: CEZAR SIMION

HENRY VINCENT, Lakeridge High: HENRY VINCE

JACKIE WEST, Lake Oswego High: JACKIE NORTH: JANET WILSON, Lake Oswego High: JANET NELSON

PREVIEW

FOUL BALL

Book Nine in the

ERIC LEWIS SPORTS SERIES

By the Coach

Thomas Smythe

ONE

“AMERICAN PIE”

…THE DAY THE MUSIC DIED

DON Mc LEAN

I

I was still in bed the morning after our improbable state basketball championship win, and humming one of my all-time favorite songs,

“American Pie” and dreaming about my soon to expire high school athletic career. I’m not sure Don Mc Lean had another hit in his professional life but this one is truly a classic.

Part of me thought maybe I should stop my athletic high school career now while I was ahead. I wasn’t sure we could duplicate the state championships in football and basketball with our returning veteran players in baseball. The lyric ‘The day the music died’ was bouncing around in my sub-conscious, except it went more like, “The day the vision died.”

“Bye bye miss American Pie, drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry. Them good old boys were drinking whiskey and rye singing this will be the day that I die, this will be the day that I die.”

I didn’t want this dream to end or for that matter to blow up in my face. And another part wanted to stop while I was still ahead. The good news was I was eighteen years old and had the world in front of me. My high school days were numbered but the future looked to be as bright as the morning sun which was just now peeking through my bedroom window.

In my high school athletic career I had been blessed with great coaches and teammates who I’d grown up with. We had, together, won two state high school football titles, two high school basketball championships and one state baseball championship. It had been the most successful series of championships in Iowa history. In the space of three years it added up to five out of eight. Our task now was to make it six out of nine.

This coming week we would have our trophy presentation assembly when we could all enjoy the thrill of placing another title trophy in our suddenly too small trophy case. There was talk of replacing or at least expanding that area. When you add to the five first place trophy’s the two second place finishes and the Semi-Final hardware earned my sophomore season in football it added up to a lot of gold and silver.

My future was pretty well set as I had signed the letter of intent to attend the University of Nebraska on a football scholarship. It was a formality for me as I had given my verbal commitment before football began. That didn’t deter some assistant coaches but I found it was easy to say “No Thanks.”

My almost roommate and best friend Cezar Simion had also signed with the Nebraska soccer program. Luke Allwood, my buddy and teammate was set to enroll at Northwest Missouri State where he would play football.

Our baseball team looked to be pretty promising. We had a lot of starters returning from last year’s second place state team. Luke at third base, Jay at shortstop and me in center field. Once again Gage Nichols would be behind the plate and Mark Mack would move from left field to second base and Gavin Fall would hold down left field. First base and right field were a question mark but there were some good looking

players coming up from the junior varsity squad and we had two transfers who some thought would fill both those spots.

Our pitching staff looked pretty strong. I would be number one and Les Fay our little left hander number two. Roger Hanning would probably be number three. Then, we had a couple more young guys that looked promising. Tim Ligott was sidelined with a shoulder problem but there was hope he would return at some point. That would be a large plus as he is a proven winner.

Our senior class was a special group. Most of us had been together since the third or fourth grade. My Yeti buddies had been there through the entire sport scene and the group of girl’s and girl friends keep us all on our toes. We would head separate ways in a few months but I’m sure it won’t be long before the class reunions will begin.

I had fabulous memories to keep a smile on my face. Sport titles were just a small part. Saturday night parties at Val’s home gave us all a chance to relax and enjoy friendship that would never end. Teachers like Mr. Madson, Miss Murtry, Ms. Mullins made education fun and each one had a special way of challenging us to do our best work. My coaches, Coach Vincetti in football, Coach Edwards in hoops and Coach Mack in baseball were the best. And I had the best family possible. My mom was always there when I needed someone and dad had the kind of advice I hoped I would pass on to my son in years to come. Both my brothers, Danny and Paul were loyal to a fault. I’m a very lucky guy.

I hopped out of bed but was the last to arrive at the breakfast table.

It was Sunday morning and both my brothers were anxiously waiting for mom to finish the bacon and egg morning kick-starter.

“How about those Comets,” offered Paul as I slid into my usual spot.

I just threw my arms open, smiled and said, “You didn’t expect us to lose did you?”

Then Danny offered, “Well just getting to the final was a major accomplishment and being down by ten with one minute to go in the final, no one saw that ending coming.”

“Never a doubt, never a doubt,” was all I could offer, repeating the exact words Doug Rollins spoke to me as I lie in the bottom of the pile of bodies celebrating our unlikely win.

II

I’m getting a bit ahead of my self because before my spring would develop I had this little appointment with my surgeon. We had decided that as soon as basketball ended we would talk seriously about a operation date.

I wanted to get it done as soon as possible. I had a final baseball season to play and since I was the number one pitcher it was crucial that I get ready as fast as possible. But young people sometimes have a hard time with the reality of life. I got my eyes opened quickly when we visited Dr. Charles on Monday after the state tournament.

“Eric, we’ve got you scheduled for next Tuesday. You’ll be admitted the night before and we’ll begin the surgery at just past seven in the morning.”

He went on to discuss the procedure and the lead up and made me feel like it was all pretty routine. Then he dropped the bomb.

“Understand open heart surgery is major Eric. This isn’t a one day in and out thing. You’ll be here in the hospital for three or four days and then another month before you’ll be able to do any physical activity other than walking.”

“A month, really? But I’ve got baseball and,” I suddenly understood and didn’t finish the sentence.

“Son, you are young and healthy other than this little problem with your valve, but again this is major surgery. Open heart is never simple and even if all goes perfectly you’ll be laid up for quite some time. I’m not sure you’ll want to get your hopes up about baseball. We’ll need to wait and see how fast you progress. But, I’ll say this you might want to take up golf.”

He went on to tell me that football next fall shouldn’t be a problem.

He did mention if I could ‘Red Shirt’, it would be the thing to do. He obviously knew a thing or two about college football.

We talked for a while longer and he answered all my questions which actually just brought up more questions in my mind.

On the way back to Crater we discussed everything and the more I thought about it the more depressed I felt.

“I’m going to have to talk with coach Mack first thing tomorrow.

He’ll need to know what we know. I guess I better start thinking of reality. I’m a heart patient and this is new water for me. Mom I’ve never been really hurt, you know seriously. And now I’m scared too.”

Mom said nothing for a few minutes as she gathered her thoughts.

Finally she said, “Eric you’ve got the best heart surgeon in America and you’ve got family and friends that won’t leave you confused and scared.

We’ll all be there for you.”

“I’ll need to talk with Coach Solich for sure and maybe even Coach Osborne. They were very understanding when we first talked about the impending surgery, but I want them to know it might be a longer recovery than I thought it would be.”

The rest of the week went by in a blur. I spoke with Coach Mack and he told me not to worry.

“Eric we’ll take you back whenever the doctor says you’re cleared.

If it’s mid season or for the state playoffs it doesn’t matter. No one is going to be issued jersey number five.”

It was Paul that mentioned golf first.

“You know, if they won’t clear you for baseball I’ll bet they would for golf. Maybe you can be on the golf team for the first half of the season and then switch back to baseball. You’d be our number one you know.”

I laughed it off but on Friday I ran in to coach Foss in the hall between classes and just before my lunch period.

“Hey coach can I ask a question?”

“Sure, what’s on your mind Eric?”

I told him about the upcoming surgery and that the doctor had told me it could easily be a month or more of recovery. Then I asked if it might be possible to play golf for part of the season.

“That’s something I’ll need to speak with coach Mack and Mr.

Sander about. But, it’s certainly something to ponder isn’t it.”

On my way to the lunch room I noticed a young boy, he had to be a freshman, sitting by himself outside a bank of lockers. I thought I saw him crying, so I stopped to see if he needed help.

“Hello, are you OK?

He looked at me with tears crawling down his cheeks and said, “I’m lost. It’s my first day and I just don’t know anyone or anything.”

He spoke English but with a foreign tone and that immediately caught my attention.

“Listen, you’re obviously new here at Crater. Let me see if I can help out.”

He wiped the tears from his face and brightened somewhat.

“The counselor gave me a class master but I’ve lost it somehow and everything is so new.”

He looked like he was about to break down again so I put my arm around his shoulder and said, “My names Eric and you don’t have to worry. I’m going to take you back to the counseling office and we’ll get this straightened out.

He was fighting back tears so I said, “What’s your name?”

“It’s Cris, without the H, and my last name is Lazar.”

“Ok Cris Lazer, let’s put you at ease, ok?”

“I’m from Romania and was adopted by an American family.

They’ve been very nice but this school is so different from what I’m used to.”

“Wow, Romania. Let me tell you something Cris. My father was born in Croatia and if my geography is correct that’s semi close to Romania. Trust me, I won’t let you wander around by yourself. Let’s get this schedule straightened out and then after school I want you to promise me to come down to the PE department. I’ll be there waiting for you. Ok?”

We walked in to the counselor’s office and Captain Jack was just coming out of his office.

“Coach, this is Cris. He’s a just moved here from Romania, living with an adopted family. He’s lost his schedule and needs help.”

“Glad to meet you Cris. Come on in to my office and we’ll figure this out and put you at ease.”

I told Cris not to forget my request and waved goodbye.

“You’re in good hands Cris and Mr. Bram will fix everything. Things will only get better for you. Welcome to Crater High.”

I was in the locker room shortly after school let out when Cris walked in.

“Hey Cris, glad you made it. Do you know anything about baseball? I’m just heading out to watch practice. I hope you’ll join me.”

“Sure. You’re Eric Lewis and Mr. Bram told me all about you.

You’re famous and a super star.”

“Well I don’t know about that, but I’ve been lucky to have a good career here. But I’ve got one more challenge.”

“He told me you are going to have a major surgery soon. Are you scared?”

“Oh yes Cris. I’m not the macho sport stud passing off heart surgery as easy. I know it’s going to be hard, but I know it’s necessary so I’m getting mentally ready, I think.”

The baseball team was working out of course and we watched practice from the bleachers. Baseball was my number three sport but heck I’d played forever and I’m realizing what I’m missing most is my teammates and we’re only a week into the pre-season.

Young athletes seem to have a attitude that they are invincible and I’m no different. But now that major surgery is staring me in the face it’s time to stand up to reality. I may have played my last high school game.

Suddenly, sitting and watching, I began to tear up. Being a member of a team is something non-athletes will never understand. Now that it might be over for me here at Crater my emotions were getting the better of me.

I think everyone knew what I was feeling.

“Now it’s my turn Eric. Are you Ok?”

I was, for the moment, in my own small world with my own thoughts.

“Watching my teammates brings back to me how much I love sports and mostly my teammates.”

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course.”

“You’re going in to major surgery and have so much on your mind, yet you stopped to ask a total stranger if he needed help.”

I just nodded.

“I think I’m going to love America.”

Inside Back Cover

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After a long and distinguished coaching career coach Smythe turned to writing. You can find all of his books on his web site www.smythe-books.com. He is semi-retired and lives in Lake Oswego, Oregon.

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BACK COVER

The trophy for the first state title of the year was put away safely in our trophy case. It was the second state football championship for the Crater Comets.

Now it was on to the next challenge. A veteran team awaited the CFL and hopefully the state of Iowa. The defending state champion Crater boys basketball would be ranked number one in all the preseason polls.

They knew they had a target on their back but that made the challenge even more fun. This senior class had won two state football titles, one state baseball championship, and were the defending state basketball champs. For some that might be a heavy load to carry, but for the senior boys it was a badge of honor.

Eric and Luke had been starters in all three sports since their sophomore year. This was to be the final hoops season and both boys were anxious to begin the new season. Because the state football final was only a week old the turnaround would need to be a fast one. But, it was this kind of challenge that lite the fire in both Eric and Luke.

It was to be Coach Edwards last season as he had already made it clear to everyone. The boys on this edition of Crater hoops awaited the chance to add to Coach Edwards legacy.

Table of Contents

Book Eight in the

EPILOGUE

Book Nine in the