Our varsity boys basketball team accomplished an amazing “first” this year – debuting at the state tournament in only their second season in the IHSAA. The Archers seemed to take the district a bit by surprise, racking up a win-loss record of 19-3. After losing to Salmon River at the district tournament finals, they had hoped for a rematch, and they got it. They had to fight for it, though, pulling off an amazing overtime win against a tough Dietrich team in the first game of the state tournament. This put them in the championship bracket, and they again fought off Summit Academy 59-44 in the second game. The rematch was on against Salmon River. The championship game seemed to be what basketball dreams are made of — two well-matched teams staying neck-and-neck, the score tied throughout most of the game. It wasn’t until toward the end of the fourth quarter that Salmon River was able to pull ahead, outscoring the Archers 63-59 in the end.
Head coach Ken Hosier accepted the runner-up trophy on behalf of the team, giving all glory to God, congratulating the Salmon River team, and thanking his wife for being a “single parent” during basketball season. Says Coach Hosier, “the main goal for us this tournament was to represent the “5” (God, Family, Community, Team, Self) well. The coaching staff at the beginning of the season told the guys they had the talent to get to the state tournament, but reaching our goal would depend on the work they put in during the season. Our defense began to peak at the right time and that helped carry us into the state tournament. I knew knocking off the #2 team in the state (Dietrich) in the first round would be a challenge, but the guys rose to the occasion in overtime. The fans were a key part of that victory–their cheering and energy helped sway the momentum. The championship atmosphere at the final game was a bit surreal. The guys made a determined effort and played a great game. I am pleased with how they played and we almost upset Salmon River’s repeat bid. I look forward to building upon the foundation we created this year.”
Ken says there are many things he’ll remember about the season: ” The girls basketball team singing, Mr. Vanderleest’s charge during our send-off, the meals with the guys pre-game, the focus of the guys in the locker room, the conversations with the coaches and AD, and the way the guys battled through adversity. Most of all I’ll remember how the Ambrose community came together to support us during the contests and lift us up after a defeat.”
The team is looking forward to another “first” next year when they will move up into Division I. GO ARCHERS!!!
Be sure to read this great story published in The Idaho Statesman before the state tournament:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/03/05/3062419/ambrose-school-ready-for-state.html
Also enjoy these photo galleries from The Idaho Statesman:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/03/07/3068382/1a-div-ii-state-basketball.html (Summit Academy game)
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/03/08/3069283/1a-div-ii-state-basketball-salmon.html (Championship game)
