Special request

Anyone having a full list of 7th grade boys team players, please send it to mvhawksbb@gmail.com.

Thanks.

Found -The lost Caleb Willhight Scoreapalooza video!!

Through the assistance of Coach Robinson Jr. I present Caleb's 2010-11 Hawks scoring debut. 

Boys TC game story will be up in an hour or so.  Stay tuned.

Scoreapalooza - week ended January 29, 2011

What's new?

Caleb Willhight breaks the doors down...

Julius Turner cracks the century barrier (104 points)...

Dixon Stoddard scores a season-high 10, coming up huge vs. TC...

Izzy Okeke ties his season game-high effort against the Eagles with 10 as well...

Rick Deichert's string of seven straight double-digit scoring performances comes to an end.  He spent Saturday night running through 27,602 screens while chasing TC's Nick Rightnowar around the court.

Emily Boyk passes Thad Woodard on the ladder.

The weather forecast for the Ottawa Hills game..

Is not promising...

Toledo is obscured on the US forecast map by the letter 'A' in BLIZZARD.

Caleb Willhight joins the Scoreapalooza roster

My apologies for not getting it on video, but when you make the list, you get your own blog post. 

Congratulations Caleb and welcome back to the hardwood.  We missed you.

Boys' JV Beats Toledo Christian 43-29, Advances to 11-1 for the Season

From Hawkblog special correspondent Portia Ash.

After taking care of business in the classroom for finals week, the boys' JV returned to the hardwood on Saturday night and faced the Toledo Christian Eagles in one of their best played games of the season. The Hawks welcomed Caleb Willhight into the line up for the first time this season and beat the Eagles 43-29 with really great play on both ends of the floor.

The Hawks came out strong and ready to play in the first quarter. Good execution of their offense and tenacious defense bolstered the Hawks to a 20-4 lead over the Eagles by the end of the first quarter. The crowd was treated to great all around play by the Hawks - great passing, solid play in the post, good guard play, and solid defensive play that held the Eagles to 4 points in the quarter.

In the second quarter, the Hawks' offense cooled off a bit as they would only find the basket once, scoring just two points in the quarter. However, their defensive intensity continued as they held the Eagles to just two points in the quarter. The Hawks ended the first half leading the Eagles 22-6.

The third quarter brought with it more of the same from the Hawks; good defense created a few fast break opportunities and contained the Eagles, great passing and good execution of the offense enabled players to knock down shots. The Hawks ended the third quarter leading the Eagles 34-15.

In the final quarter of the game, the momentum stayed with the Hawks and their solid performance continued. Great passing, solid play in the post and by the guards and great defense were the keys to the game for the Hawks.

Hawks fans were treated to sound basketball and another great effort by the entire team. We hope the same focus and tenacity will be reflected in all of your grades on final exams as well!

Up next, the Hawks welcome the Ottawa Hills Green Bears to campus on Tuesday night for their second TAAC matchup against the Green Bears on the season. Go Hawks!

Scoring - Okeke 10, Collins 9, Hazimah 7, King 6, Knabbs 6, Willhight 3, Woodard 2

Hawks uber alles??

24 page views from Germany in the last 24 hours.

Deichert, Bayer, Sturt, Krueger,,.ja, ja, Ich sehe es.


.

MV 47 - TC 46 in OT - Insightful Internet Commentary

Jared, Dixon and Dave tell the story of MV's overtime win this evening.

Hawks 47 - Toledo Christian 46 in single OT - quick summary

Tonight at the TC gym, Maumee Valley snapped a multi-year drought and defeated the TC Eagles 47-46  in overtime. 

The Hawks were down 23-12 at the half, shooting a paltry 23% from the field.  But they found their game in the second half, pounding the ball inside and taking advantage of TC foul trouble late.  MV played as much press as TC this evening, something that would have been unthinkable a year or two ago.

Free throws were key down the stretch and MV was up for the challenge.  Unofficially, the Hawks were 15-20 at the line this evening, including the game winner by Dave Brown late in OT. 

Scoring tonight for MV - Jared Sturt led with 12, Dixon Stoddard had 10, Julius Turner and Dave Brown had 9 and Rick Deichert scored 7.

So, MV for now takes control of the TAAC lead, but the Ottawa Hills Green Bears come to the Varsity Gym Tuesday evening in what could be a separator for Maumee Valley. 

But for now, this was a game to savor.  Well done Hawks.

Just give me another 0.5 seconds...

Round 1 vs. TC.  Perhaps it would be better not to get in this position in the first place.

More MVCDS culture

It's the String Ensemble again plus the MV High School Choir.  From the January 19 concert. 

OH girls 68 – MV 18 – 1.28.11 – At OH

Short report this evening. That was the best team the girls will play this year and probably next.


Starting the game - Delaney Lonsway (‘12), Cammie Lonsway (‘14), Genna Danes (‘12), Karla Luketic (‘11) and Kristin Bigelow (’12) – also playing for MV – Jordan Baker (’14), Yazmin AbdelKarim (’12), and Cammie Lonsway (’14)

Lauren Abendroth for OH made about eight of nine three pointers this evening. MV struggled much of the night against an athletic man-to-man defense by the Green Bears. Things got away from the Hawks early.

But I did get this highlight of Delaney stealing the ball on the press and dishing it off to Kristin for two.




Scoring for the Hawks – Kristin 10, Genna 5, Delaney 3

The girls still have much to play for, including clear 5th place in the TAAC.

TAAC boys stats - Friday January 28, 2011

Hawks among the leaders:

Scorers

Rick Deichert - 12.7 ppg / 7th in TAAC
Jared Sturt - 10.8 ppg / 11th in TAAC
Julius Turner - 8.6 / 14th in TAAC

Rebounders

Jared - 7.7 / 5th in TAAC

TC preview - round deux

Here is the link to the initial Toledo Christian preview.

Here is the link to the first round game story.

Since defeating Maumee Valley 30-27 at the Varsity Gym, the Eagles have gone 6-2, losing back to back games to Van Buren and Ottawa Hills in December.  They went on a tear thereafter, currently riding a five game winning streak, including four TAAC wins.  Overall, TC is 8-3; 6-1 in the TAAC.

Statistically, TC's top scorers include David Westmeyer (11.1 ppg / 10th in TAAC), Nick Rightnour (10.6 / 13th) and Josh Whitlow (7.9 / 16th). 

Westmeyer averages 5.3 rebounds per game, good for 9th place in the TAAC.

TC features their trademark 1-3-1 defense but also loves to press.  They will need to slow down the Hawks inside game.  This was their demise against Ottawa Hills first time around. 

The teeny TC gym with its stage holding the student cheering section (which I appreciate very much; they're great fans)  will be rocking, so all you fans - get out there and cheer on the Hawksquad.

Family

From the Bettsville game, courtesy Top Row Photography / Roger Spurgeon

Girls Basketball pix - thanks Mrs. Baker!!

Time out at Cardinal Stritch

Anne, Cammie, Delaney and Yazmin pre-game

Genna and Kristin

Cammie, Jordan, Genna and Kristin, doing their movie pose from The Right Stuff

Poll update

Not much change for the Hawks in the polls this week. 

Still ranked second in the Blade D-IV poll behind McComb.  Ottawa Hills is third, TC fourth.

MV is 22nd in the JJ Huddle poll.  Curiously, Ottawa Hills is tied for tenth place here, but the Hawks control their destiny.

Still no love for any TAAC teams in the OHSAA AP poll. 

Girls' TAAC stats from the Toledo Blade

Kristin is first in TAAC scoring with her 20.2 ppg average through 11 games.  That puts her third overall among all players in the Blade coverage area, from the City League to the NWOAL and beyond. 

Genna is in 9th place in the TAAC averaging 7.4 per game.

Genna (8.6 per game) and Kristin (7.3) are in third and fourth place respectively in rebounding. 

And you thought all MV did was play basketball...

Included in this year's String Ensemble are HS basketball players Thad Woodard, Rick Deichert, Parker Bayer, Nick Frasco and Anne Deichert. 

From the concert on January 19, 2011.

TC girls 50 – MV 35 - 1.22.11 at the Varsity Gym – Progress

Starting the game - Delaney Lonsway (‘12), Cammie Lonsway (‘14), Genna Danes (‘12), Karla Luketic (‘11) and Kristin Bigelow (’12)


Several of the Hawks were hampered by illness and saw limited action throughout the afternoon.

First Quarter - First 3:10: TC 4 – MV 4 / Last 4:50: TC 12 – MV 4

Early play was marked by turnovers on both ends. Kristin scored the first two baskets for the Hawks and they were tied.

The Hawks fell behind during a stretch of breakdowns against the TC press – two flurries of two baskets each during the middle and end of the quarters. In between, there was this score by Genna




And this video is offered to illustrate the title of this story. In prior years, MV would not have been nearly this aggressive in going after rebounds and loose balls. Things are changing for the Hawks, and if they can play like this for 32 minutes straight, they can win more often than not.



Delaney made the last two points of the quarter for the Hawks from the line.

Yazmin AbdelKarim and Jordan Baker saw considerable action during the first quarter.

Second Quarter – TC 12 – MV 12

TC started the scoring with a two pointer, but MV roared right back with a top-of-the-key three pointer from Genna and a runner from Kristin for two




The Eagles were pressing the entire game and was substituting freely with a nine girl rotation. MV fared well though with better than average success breaking the pressure. Still, TC scored the next five points of the quarter.

Kristin scored twice more in the quarter, including this long two pointer




...and it was TC which called a time out at 2:06 to straighten out their defense with the score TC 26 - MV 18.



Third quarter – MV 8 – TC 7

Now there’s a scoring line you haven’t seen for a few years.

TC started the quarter in Man defense, MV played its stock 2-3 zone.

The Eagles’ coach kept her team in the locker room until the last minute, seemingly frustrated at her team’s inability to extend their first quarter lead. But whatever offensive instructions she gave her players fell on deaf ears. Both teams started out slowly and it wasn’t until under four minutes left in the quarter that TC scored first.

But the Hawks returned serve, Kristin first drawing a foul at 3:32, making one, then Delaney made a basket + 1:




…which she made. As Delaney was at the line, the TC fans were cheering for the miss – having the visiting crowd anxious this late in the game was indicative of the Hawks’ play in the quarter.

MV came out of the free throw in a press themselves and got the ball back after Genna blocked a shot. Kristin got to the line and made one of two. TC called another time out with 2:29 left and the score TC 33 – MV 25. Play continued and TC made a two pointer to lead by 10, but Maumee Valley scored the last three points of the quarter on three free throws, two by Kristin and one by Delaney.

The Hawks had won the quarter and were down by seven, 35-28.

Fourth quarter – First 4:30 - TC 11 – MV 0 / Last 3:30 – MV 7 – TC 4

The hill would be too steep for the Hawks this quarter. TC switched up their press from zone to man and it caused confusion and a flurry of quick baskets for the visitors. To break things up, Coach Mussery called a press of his own at the 4:23 mark, and forced a few turnovers. MV broke into the scoring column late in the game on a Kristin steal and basket.

At the 1:53 mark with an 18 point lead, TC emptied the bench. Maumee Valley scored five of the game’s last seven points and the game ended with TC up by 15.

Scoring

Kristin hit for 24 during the afternoon. Delaney (6) and Genna (5) were the other Hawk scorers.

Summary

One quarter at a time. That’s a fair measure of improvement for the young Hawks team. In this game they won a quarter and tied one against the Blade Division IV fifth ranked team. This game was significantly better played than the Hawks game at TC.

Two tough stretches especially in the fourth quarter when the Hawks were affected by illness did the home team in this day. But for the majority of the game this young team played hard and equal to the task. Coaches Dennis Mussery and Brian Lisk have significantly improved their team’s game since the beginning of the season.

With finals out of the way, the basketball doesn’t get any easier for MV as they travel to Ottawa Hills Friday evening for a 6pm game.

We've got the beat

We've got that Maumee Valley beat...

Welcome MV Alumni

The blog was linked this afternoon from the school's alumni e-newsletter.  Feel free to look around at the pages and posts.  Thanks to Michael Esten for doing this.

I guess I'll have to stop disparaging the teams of old now...hey, just kidding.

LInk to Toledo Blade Article on Jim Robinson

Nice article.  Make sure to read to the end.

Your Hawkblog Guide to Finals!!

Some timely guidance from the Hawkblog staff.

1.  Having trouble with math or science?  Go to http://www.khanacademy.org/  Find your problem area and click on a lecture. 

2.  Need a instant cram session for history?  Try memorizing this:



or this



or even this





but maybe not this




4.  But finally, and most importantly,

GET OFF THE BLOG AND STUDY ALREADY, OK??

Chapter 11 – Generations – MV 60 – Cardinal Stritch 39 – 1.21.11 at the Varsity Gym

Setting the Table

On this evening, Maumee Valley celebrated Coach Robinson’s 500th victory before and after the game. When Coach spoke during the pre-game festivities, he introduced several of his assistants from past years, from Port Clinton and Maumee (namely, new Cardinal Stritch Coach Dave Reicker). Several former players were on hand as well, most notably star guard Jamie Mercurio. And it's good to remember that in addition to those present, Coach Robinson has touched hundreds of lives during his 40+ years of experience.  It was a wonderful honoring of the past.

But there was also the present, this Maumee Valley team which had rolled to four straight victories in the new year. It has been a whirlwind season for the Hawks, who have garnered a plethora of media attention from their participation in the Blade Classic, from being the team which earned their coach a milestone win and from just being good. The Hawks were ready for more this night.

Game Summary

Maumee Valley defeated Cardinal Stritch 60-39 at the Varsity Gym on the strength of three double-digit scorers. Rick Deichert led the way with 18 points, a season high, followed by Jared Sturt with 17 and Julius Turner with 15.

Jared played only 20 minutes, his time limited by a poke in the eye in the third quarter. He is not expected to miss any playing time. During that time, he grabbed 19 rebounds, of which 11 were on the offensive end.

The Hawks maintained solid control of the basketball during the evening, surrendering only six turnovers during the game.

First Quarter MV 13 – CS 9

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Dixon Stoddard (’12) and Jonathan Krueger (’12)

Cardinal Stritch started out in a 1-3-1 zone defense but would switch frequently to a 2-3 zone and man defense. MV played man defense most of the evening, applying full-court pressure frequently during the game.

Jared opened the scoring with two free throws after pulling in an offensive rebound. But Michael Blazevich came right back with a Cardinal basket. Rick scored next at the hoop off a pass from Dave. The guards kept up the pace when Dave stole the ball and got it to Rick for a three from the corner. It was 7-2 Hawks at the 4:15 mark.

The Cards came back with two and had posession, but Rick stole a lazy pass at the top and ran free to the basket for two.

Justin Staler snapped in a three to close the gap for Stritch, but Jared then tipped in a miss for two, then again put back a missed Rick Deichert shot.  Jared was having his way underneath grabbing several rebounds on both ends.

Cardinal Stritch’s Matt Guy made the last basket of the quarter to pull the visitors to within 13-9 at the end of the half.

Second Quarter MV 17 – CS 13

Starting the Quarter – Rick, Dave, Julius, Jonathan and Dixon

MV opened the quarter with a bang; Dixon stole the ball and fed it to Julius for two points. A few empty possessions later, a defensive miscommunication allowed Justin Staler to come free and make his second three pointer for CS to make it 15-12 MV.

Rick drove strong to the basket from the right wing for the next two points and the Hawks followed up with pressure, forcing a traveling call. On the ensuing possession, Julius split the Cardinals’ 2-3 zone down the middle for two and it was 19-12 Hawks. CS coach Dave Riecker had seen enough and called time out with 5:54 left in the half. MV brought Jared and Nick back into the game.

The game slowed down considerably with both offenses running their motion offences. But Jared took over the next segment of the game. He scored two after grabbing two offensive rebounds. Then after a CS miss, Dave quickly got the ball back to Number 35, who was fouled hard under the basket. Jared made both foul shots and the Hawks were ahead 24-16.

Staler scored two more for CS, then Dave was called for an offensive foul on a drive to the basket. Just when it looked like the visitors were gaining momentum, Rick stole a pass and got to the basket for two. MV got the ball again and Jared’s strong presence again came to the forefront. He was fouled shooting and made one of two, then tipped another shot in off a rebound to make it 28-19 MV.

After one last basket by Justin Staler for the Cardinals, the Hawks scored one more time in the quarter on a inbounds pass by Jon Krueger to Dixon for two. At the half it was Maumee Valley 30 – Cardinal Stritch 21.

It was a dominating performance in the first half by Jared, who scored 13 points and had 13 rebounds, seven of which were on the offensive glass. The Hawks' starting center was 5-6 from the floor and 3-4 from the free throw line.

Justin Staler had an all-TAAC performance in the second quarter, keeping the Cardinals in the game with his outside shooting.

Third Quarter MV 16 – CS 11

Starting the quarter – Initial game starters

Jared continued his hot hand, scoring first for MV off a missed shot. Dixon drew a charge and the Hawks got the ball back. Jared tried a dunk which just missed:



The Cardinals grabbed the rebound, but Dixon stole the ball and got the outlet pass to Rick, who was pulled down hard by Stahler on the shot. Rick made both free throws. Jon stole the inbounds pass and got it to Dave Brown who fired a three-ball in from the top of the key. It was 37-21 Hawks when the guests called a time out.

MV came out of the time out in a press, but Dixon was called for a block. Julius came in at 5:05 for Dixon following the foul. Play continued choppily for MV when Rick was called for an offensive foul, and CS scored twice to pull back to within 12.

Julius scored on a reverse layup, and the Cardinals answered back with two. Jared scored again for the Hawks after pulling an offensive rebound.

MV again got the ball under the basket and Rick scored a three pointer off the inbounds play.





On the following play, Jared was poked in the eye going for a rebound and was taken out of the game for the evening. At 2:09, Dixon drew his fourth foul, and Omar entered the game. At that moment, the Hawks lineup included Nick, Rick, Julius, Jonathan and Omar.

That group went to work immediately. Nick grabbed the next defensive rebound and the next video shows Jon putting back a miss by Julius.




It was MV 46 – CS 29. Cardinal Stritch made the final three points of the quarter to pull back to within 46-32 at the end of three.

Fourth Quarter – MV 14 – CS 7

Starting the Quarter – Rick, Dave, Omar, Julius, Jon.

With a 14 point lead, Coach Robinson was content to run time off the clock. MV held the ball until the 7:07 mark when Omar was fouled. He made one shot.

The Hawks got the ball back and Julius drove down the middle of the lane for two points. Omar grabbed the ensuing defensive rebound and Julius was fouled at the hoop. He made both ends and MV led 50-32. Omar again rebounded a CS miss and on a quick outlet, Julius cut through three CS defenders to score the next basket. Again the Cardinals missed and it was Rick’s turn to score.

MV was now ahead by 22 and with 3:49 to go, Coach Robinson began to replace the remaining starters.

Some final videos from the fourth quarter:

Julius almost dunks a rebound, but is called for offensive goaltending




Daniel with a free throw.



And finally, Julius at the line.




At the end of the game, AJ King, Thad Woodard, Daniel Brandon, Omar and Parker Bayer were on the floor.

Final Game Thoughts

Having covered past and present while setting the table, it is appropriate to address the future in summarizing the night’s events.

First, it was a joy to see Coach Robinson’s children and grandchildren at the game. From ‘Junior’ on the bench exhorting the Hawks during the game to Jim’s granddaughter singing the National Anthem, Friday night's game story could have easily been entitled Hawks Family Robinson (I reserve the right to use that title for a future chapter).

Second, I have a feeling about Cardinal Stritch. It stems from a moment in the second quarter. About half way through that frame following a Cardinal score, Stritch got the ball back after a travel call but the team was not running whatever Coach Reicker had called. He called a time out and vociferously reminded his team – for each and every moment of a 30 second time out – to stay disciplined.

It was at this instant that the connection could clearly be made between the two head coaches; neither coach being willing to tolerate loose play on either end - knowledge passed on from generation to generation.

Cardinal Stritch has a solid core of front line players coming back next year. To be sure, they will miss sharpshooting Senior Guard Justin Stahler, but if they can find someone with outside scoring skills the TAAC had better watch out. Watching them play brought back memories of the Hawks circa 2008-9. 

Finally as to the Hawks; they have made it through the mid-January stretch undefeated. Now, following a bout with final exams they face two games which will likely decide the TAAC championship and a number one seed in the Sectional Pairings. TC and Ottawa Hills are the next games on Maumee Valley’s schedule. For that future, we wait with anticipation and optimism…

Scoring

And now for the happy totals.  Rick led the way with 18 points, followed by Jared who scored 17 and had 19 rebounds in only 20 minutes of action, Julius with 15, Jon with 4, Dave with 3, Dixon with 2 and Daniel Brandon with 1.

Next up

It’s finals week at MV, and the boys have the entire week off until next Saturday evening when the Hawks travel to Toledo Christian for the second round of back-to-back games among the league leaders. TC’s gym is not much bigger than Maumee Valley’s and the game will sell out.

JVs 33 - Cardinal Stritch 13 - JV Action videos

Three videos to peruse from Friday night

Solomon to Izzy inside




AJ King with a jumper




Thad to Izzy for two

Scoreapalooza - week ended January 22, 2011

Highlights -

- Steven Dick enters the fray

- Kristin Bigelow gets her average back over 20ppg and...

- Kristin is the first Hawk past the 200 point mark

- Julius Turner enters the top five

MV Girls 52 – MCA 30 – 1.20.11 – Two in a row

Game Summary

Kristin Bigelow scored a season high 28 points leading the Hawks to a 52-30 victory over the Monclova Christian Academy Thunder Thursday January 20, 2011. MV jumped out to a 16-2 lead in the first and never looked back. Every player received significant playing time during the evening and six Hawks scored in the game.

First Quarter – MV 16 – MCA 2

Starting the game - Delaney Lonsway (‘12), Jazmine Aldridge-Brownlee (‘12), Genna Danes (‘12), Karla Luketic (‘11) and Kristin Bigelow (’12) – get well soon Wesley!

MCA played most of the game in a 2-3 zone, but started the game in man defense. MV played its base 2-3 zone.

The scoring started immediately for MV with a fast break basket by Delaney from Kristin. MV pressed the first part of the game. Delaney stole the ball on the first try, and returned the fast break-favor to Kristin for two. Jasmine scored the next two for MV off a rebound and the Hawks were off and running, 6-0.

Kristin scored her best basket of the evening at the 4:35 mark with a beautiful reverse layup. She would make three more two-pointers during the quarter to get her well on the way to a big scoring night – including this first quarter basket.



Jordan Baker entered the game with 3:52 to go in the quarter, and fit right in to the offensive flow. She also made an impact at the defensive end with a blocked shot that Kristin converted for two points.

Next up was Delaney who made this jumper with 1:52 left in the quarter.



Kristin would get to the hoop twice more in the quarter, but would be fouled. She made 2-4, and the frame ended with Maumee Valley ahead 16-2

Second Quarter – MV 15 – MCA 10

Starting the quarter – Yazmin AbdelKarim, Jordan, Genna, Cammie Lonsway, Kristin

MCA scored the first five points of the quarter, but MV quickly recovered. Kristin was fouled on a shooting attempt and made both ends. The Hawks got the ball back and Genna scored on this inbounds play.



Yazmin got into the scoring column with a three pointer to make it 23-7 MV.

At 3:04 remaining in the quarter, Anne Deichert came into the game and the Hawks kept rolling. Delaney made a layup, then after a Thunder three-ball, Genna scored two off an offensive rebound and Kristin scored off a pass from Anne. Another Delaney steal and pass to Kristin for two increased the Hawks lead to 31-12. Anne missed a three point try at the buzzer and the Hawks led by 19 at halftime.

Third quarter – MV 10 – MCA 7

Starting the quarter – Initial game starters

First up, two Kristin scoring videos:







Later in the quarter, Delaney scored on a give-and-go from Kristin on one of the best plays of the evening and MV was up 39-14.

Jordan and Yazmin returned to action during the quarter, and this next sequence ended with Jordan scoring two.




MCA scored the quarter’s final points and at the end of three it was MV 41 – MCA 19.

Fourth quarter – MCA 11 - MV 9

Starting the quarter – Yazmin, Cammie, Jordan, Genna and Kristin

The quarter started with another Kristin two pointer off the ‘Wisconsin’ play.



Another two second video highlight features a Jordan pass to Genna for two




With 5:20 to play, Emily Boyk entered the game and the entire roster had then seen action.





The final score of the evening came on a Jordan Baker two-pointer from the short corner and the game ended with the Hawks up 54-30.

Scoring

Kristin 28, Delaney 8, Genna 6, Jordan 5, Yazmin 3, Jasmine 2. In additin to Kristin, Jordan Baker turned in a season-high single-game scoring performance.

Notes

- Kristin’s 28 points ties her for the HS-wide single game high score this season, matching AJ King’s JV performance vs. TC in December

- The boys JV team supplied a raucous cheering section last night.

Next up

A more stout challenge faces the Hawks as they host the Toledo Christian Eagles Saturday at 1pm.

Coach Robinson's 500th win Celebration videos - 1.21.11 before the Cardinal Stritch game

Here's the presentation of the game ball and plaque to Coach and his remarks.  Congratulations again Coach!





Pre-game shots of some future Hawks in action.






Coach Robinson's granddaughter sings the National Anthem

MV 60 - Cardinal Stritch 39 - 1.21.11- Insightful Internet Commentary

We're goin' old school tonight on the Commentary.  Carter Bayer and Jangus Whitner, both class of 2010 bring the knowledge on tonight's win.

MV girls 54 - MCA 30 - 1.20.11 - Insightful Internet commentary

Brought to you by Delaney, Cammie, Kristin, Genna and Jasmine

Boys’ JV Beats Cardinal Stritch 33-13, Goes Undefeated in First Round of TAAC Play

From Hawkblog Special Correspondent Portia Ash.

Another TAAC Friday night adventure for the Hawks as they faced the Cardinal Stritch Cardinals in the final game of the first round of TAAC play for the season. The Hawks started out well in the first quarter, playing unselfish ball, great defense and they got their offense going early AND often with Collins - 4, King - 3, Okeke – 2, and Hazimah – 1, each producing dividends for the Hawks. Collins scored down low with two great moves in the post, King hit a three from the top of the, Okeke worked it in the middle and Hazimah hit one of two from the line as he was fouled penetrating the defense. The Hawks finished the first quarter leading the game 12-0 as their tenacious defense did not allow the Cardinals to score a point in the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the Hawks offense cooled off a bit as some good shots just would not fall. Okeke hit the only basket the Hawks would score in the quarter, but their defense continued to be relentless, only allowing the Cardinals 3 points in the second. The Hawks went into the half up by eleven over the Cardinals, 14-3.

With King in a little foul trouble, Knabbs and Hazimah ran the offense for the Hawks for a good part of the second half. We continued to see great defense from the Hawks and balanced scoring as the Hawks continued to execute their offense well in the second half. You gotta love, love, love the play inside from Collins and Okeke throughout the game, a couple of shots that should have fallen didn’t, but great job guys down in the post on offense and on defense as you contained the Cardinals inside. The Hawks finished the third quarter leading the Cardinals 24-9.

The Hawks played the fourth quarter with more of the same; unselfish play, solid defense and good execution of their offense. One of the crowd favorite plays from the second half was a 3 from the top of the key from MacPherson just as he entered the game for the Hawks – he squared his shoulders, set his feet, had good rotation on the ball and SWOOSH – nothing but net – you go Grant. AND we love, love, love how Knabbs and Hazimah continued to penetrate the defense and dish or shoot a nice bank shot off the glass. The Hawks finished the game, beating the Cardinals 33-13. To continue to quote Gayle King (ask your mom’s who she is boys), “special mommy hugs to all of you!”

Overall, a very well played game by the boys’ JV!

Up next, the Hawks take a little bit of a breather after completing round one of TAAC play. A week from Saturday, they will travel to Toledo Christian and play Eagles to kick off the second round of TAAC play for the season. Round one done, let’s go Hawks for round two! Remember, no rest for the weary, you have to keep working; they think they know your tendencies now, so come up with some surprises for round two.

Scoring – Collins 8, Hazimah 8, Okeke 8, King 5, MacPherson 3, Woodard 1

MV 60 - Cardinal Stritch 39 - 1.22.11- Quick Summary

Maumee Valley defeated Cardinal Stritch 60-39 last night at the Varsity Gym on strength of three double digit scorers.  Rick Deichert led the way with 18 points, a season high, followed by Jared Sturt with 17 and Julius Turner with 15. 

Jared played only 20 minutes, his time limited by a poke in the eye in the third quarter.  He is not expected to miss any playing time.   During that time, he grabbed 19 rebounds, of which 11 were on the offensive end.

The Hawks maintained solid control of the basketball during the evening, surrendering only six turnovers during the evening.

Cardinal Stritch is under the direction this year of long time Jim Robinson assistant Dave Reiker.  The Cardinals are a rapidly improving team and will be making some noise in the TAAC before too long.

Cardinal Stritch Preview

Fast facts


Opponent: Cardinal Stritch
Enrollment (9-12): 368
Division/League: D-IV / TAAC
Team Nickname: Cardinals



That GUY is Hammerin' Henry Beausejour ('10) in action last year at Stritch (photo courtesy of Top Row Photography/Roger Spurgeon).

Toledo Blade Preview of Cardinal Stritch

Coach: Dave Reicker, first season

Last season: 6-15, 6-6 TAAC
This season:2-9, 1-4

Top players: Senior Justin Staler, G. Junior Michael Blazevich, 6-0, G; Kyle Hatfield, 6-3, C (3.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg). Sophomore Robbie Beiker, 6-4, G. 2.0, 1.0 .

Outlook: The Cardinals are in rebuilding mode and will rely on Staler (15.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg) and Blazevich (8.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg) to lead the way during Reicker's first season. Staler returns as one of the top offensive players in the TAAC. Hatfield and Beiker are also expected to make contributions to help Stritch become more of a contender in the TAAC than in previous seasons.

"The big thing is to get a winning attitude," Reicker said. "I'm hoping to change the attitude. We need to work on our defense and rebounding."


Hawkblog notes – Stritch features the Number 5 scorer in the TAAC, Senior Guard Justin Staler who averages 14.8 ppg. (Justin, meet Rick Deichert) and 9th best rebounder, Junior forward Michael Blazevich (Michael, meet Dixon Stoddard)…the Cardinals have lost five straight, but took Division III Genoa to overtime before losing a heartbreaker last week at home…Coach Dave Reicker has worked with Jim Robinson previously…The Cardinals are the only Conference team the Hawks have not seen yet...remember the celebration following the game for Coach Robinson to be held in the Johnson-Bayer gym...this is the last game before finals; keep your eyes on the ball and study hard Hawks

HIghlights of Blade TAAC Stats

Rick is 8th in scoring, Jared 10th.
Jared is 5th in rebounding. 

Chapter 10 – Coach Jim Robinson’s 500th win – MV 64 – Bettsville 43 – 1.18.11 game story

Setting the Table

No elaborate stories about this evening.

I just want to say thanks personally to Coach Jim Robinson for raising boys basketball at Maumee Valley Country Day School to a level of excellence on par with the entire school we all love so much.

Game Summary

Coach Jim Robinson won career game 500 tonight, as his Maumee Valley Hawks defeated the Bettsville Bobcats 64 – 43 at the Bettsville gym.

Coach Robinson gave the starters the night off at the half way point in the third quarter and the entire varsity squad saw playing time this evening.

The media was well represented at the game, which was broadcast on BCSN / TV 11 by MV alum Craig Choka plus coverage by Channels 13 and 24.

First Quarter MV 16 – BV 9

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Dixon Stoddard (’12) and Jonathan Krueger (’12)

Bettsville and MV each played a single defense pretty much the whole evening; the Bobcats in a 3-2 zone and MV in man.

Dixon Stoddard led the charge for the Hawks in the early going, scoring the first five points on some strong moves under the basket, including a hoop + 1 on the second possession.

As expected, Bettsville’s offense was geared to a quick tempo. But with their best three point shooter 6’2” forward Ryan Hartsel hanging outside the arc much of the evening, offensive rebounds were nary to be seen for the hosts. The Bobcats were one-and-done early and often on the night.

MV scored next on a Jared Sturt basket + 1 (which he made) off the first of many fast breaks for the starting rotation.

Meanwhile, Rick drew the assignment of stopping the Bobcats’ leading scorer, Senior guard Dakota Wright. We’ll mention his name later in the game story.

The Hawks kept running and Dave Brown banked in a deuce with 5:09 left in the frame. And again, Rick Deichert scored his first bucket off the break from Dave






...to make it 11-4 Hawks.

The home team would mount a comeback scoring the next five points (its best stretch of the evening) with a strong move to the hoop by Dominic Miccichi and a three pointer by Ryan Hartsel.

At 2:05, Julius Turner made his first appearance for the visitors and would, like Dave Brown, draw the Bettsville defenders in with strong moves toward the basket. Jared capitalized on this all evening and scored the next basket off the left hand short corner.

MV made the final basket of the quarter with 52 seconds left, a confident three-ball by Julius and the Hawks would get a rest, up by 7.

Second Quarter MV 16 – BV 7

Starting the quarter – Dave, Rick, Jared, Julius, Dixon

Bettsville continued to run-and-gun, but wasn’t converting at its end. A hyper-focused Dixon Stoddard stole a pass on Bettsville’s initial possession and was fouled shooting at the other end. Bettsville grabbed the rebound and threw the down court pass to a releasing guard for an easy two.

The game briefly slowed down to a half-court offense, but Bettsville’s 3-2 zone opened up acres on the baseline for Jared to operate. He continued to cash in, scoring the next two baskets on a baby hook then a near dunk stepping in from the left hand short corner.

MV revved up its running game engines again and it was Rick with a fast break two ball. MV had doubled the Bobcats 22-11 at the 4:15 mark.

The Hawks stepped up the pace on the other end, putting on the man press. After a steal and miss for the visitors, Ryan Hartsell would again hit a three to cut the lead to 22-14.

But the pressure would pay off for Maumee Valley. Julius showed off his passing skills the next two possessions, first on a beauty to Rick on the break for two and then a no-look bounce pass to Jared from where else, the left hand short corner for two.

MV’s defense was operating at a high level during the quarter. The entire starting rotation was swarming to the ball, cutting off pass after pass by the Bobcats.

At 2:23, Nick Frasco entered the game for Dave and found Rick on the break for two points.

On the next possession, Julius would go at it again with an athletic drive to the basket and a feed to Jared for another two from guess where (a free bag of popcorn for those who said left hand short corner). Meanwhile, Turner was dishin’ it up like the Swedish Chef.





...OK, maybe he was a little smoother than that, but it was 30-16 Hawks.

Scoring in the quarter ended with another fast break layup by Rick and at the half, it was Maumee Valley 32 – Bettsville 16.

MV had nine steals in the half (Dixon led with three) and Jared had tallied 12 points to lead all scorers.

Third Quarter MV 19 – BV 11

Starting the quarter – Nick, Dave, Julius, Jared, Jonathan

Although Bettsville had the ball to open the second half, Nick quickly forced a turnover 17 seconds in. He took control at the point and fed the ball to Julius for the two. And here is your video evidence of that play.




Meanwhile, Senior forward Eric Bender became very active around the basket scoring on two straight possessions.

Play was combobulated during the next few possessions, but Julius stole the ball and took it straight to the hoop, righting the ship for the Hawks.





Next posession, Julius got it to Rick who made a beautiful head fake at the elbow and finished at the basket for two.  Jon Krueger then split the Bobcat defense for a two pointer.




At one point in the third,  three consecutive offensive sets for the Hawks ended at the line. Jared was fouled while shooting the next trip down for MV and made both ends. Dixon was next up with a shooting foul and made the first. Jared pulled the offensive rebound on Dixon’s second shot, was fouled putting it back and made two more. The Hawks were ahead 48-24 with 2:27 left.

Coach Robinson was satisfied with the production of his starters and began resting them one by one. Omar Hazimah entered the game and helped run off the next 59 seconds with the motion offense.

At the 1:20 mark of the third, Bettsville’s leading scorer, Dakota Wright was fouled and made his first point of the evening. Rick came out shortly thereafter with a good night’s work at both ends (12 points, all at the hoop and holding his man to 1 point while in the game - a plus 11 night if you're a hockey player, eh?).

With three seconds left in the quarter, Nick pivoted to Parker Bayer on a Princeton special down the right side of the lane for the closing points of the quarter. It was MV 51 – Bettsville 27.

Fourth Quarter BV 14 - MV 13

Starting the quarter – Nick, Parker, Omar, Daniel Brandon, Dixon (playing post)

This quarter will be brought to you in video format.

First up, Dixon scores as the post player.




Next, Daniel at the line makes one of two.




Omar for two




Parker down the lane.



Daniel again from close range



And Daniel Brandon closes it out with a left hand hook shot.





As the buzzer sounded, the Hawks were ahead by 21 points.

Final Game Thoughts

The game ended like so many others have for Coach Robinson. His base rotation played smothering defense and sprang out to a big lead. After confirmation of this performance during the first six minutes of the third quarter, he was able to get the entire roster into the game. At the end, he saw a team capable of running the complex MV offense down to the last man, controlling the ball, running clock and generating easy chances at the end of a set.

How many times do you think Coach has seen this scenario play out during the course of an evening? I’d guess somewhere around 500. Congratulations Coach, and thanks again.

For Maumee Valley fans, the transition of the basketball program over the last three years is staggering. From the team that played what seemed like every TAAC opponent's Senior Night to a front runner for the title this year with an underclassman-dominated roster, it’s a 180 worthy of Kristi Yamaguchi.

At the end of Chapter 10 of the blog, it’s worth a moment to pause and understand that Coach will have  the core of this team for another year and a half. That time will go by in an instant. Yet it is to be savored, each moment.

Small stuff…

- Jared Sturt was named BCSN player of the game for his 16 point performance in about 20 minutes of work.

- Bettsville has a combo gym / stage with a 12 inch drop-off from the floor to the walkway. Definitely pre-OSHA.  Here is a video shot pre-game.




- Several of Coach’s friends made the trip to Bettsville for Number 500.

- Thanks to the local media for coming east to cover the game.

Scoring

And now for the happy totals.  Jared Sturt led the way with 16 points, followed by Rick Deichert with 12, Julius Turner 9, Dixon Stoddard 8, Daniel Brandon 5, Omar Hazimah 4, Parker Bayer 4, Jonathan Krueger 2, Dave Brown 2 and Nick Frasco 2.  Also seeing action this historic evening were Freshmen Thad Woodard and AJ King.

New personal season-high scores were earned by Daniel Brandon and Parker Bayer. Dixon tied his season high.

Next up

Friday evening at the Varsity Gym the Blue and White will take on the Cardinal Stritch Cardinals (where did they come up with that nickname?) There will be a pre-game presentation to Coach Robinson before the varsity tipoff around 7:30. I would advise an early arrival for all fans, as several of Coach’s former players and assistants will be on hand for the festivities.

Weezie Stoddard has an MVCDS flickr page

Many great MV pix on this site, basketball and otherwise.  Definately worth your time.

Thanks

Due to the fortuitous combination of Coach's 500th win and a snow day, the blog had its single biggest day on January 19 with 168 visits.  The Hawkblog has over 3,200 page views in its two month history.

If you like the blog, feel free to post a link or recommendation on Facebook, e-mail or whatever to your friends.

JV action videos - MV 54 - Bettsville 20

Three videos for your viewing pleasure this evening. 

First up, a patient Hawk offensive sequence punctuated by a Rashaan Preston layup.




Next, a breakaway two by Marcus Knabbs




Finally Grant MacPherson floats an entry pass to Rashaan, who smoothly finishes.

Boys' JV Beats Bettsville Bobcats, Advance to 9-1 on the Season

From Hawkblog Special Correspondent Portia Ash

On Tuesday the boys' JV traveled to Bettsville, Ohio, to play the Bettsville High School Bobcats and beat the Bobcats 54-20 in their last non-conference game until the end of the regular season.

The Bobcats greeted us with our second pep band of the season (way too much fun) and the first mascot of the season, a rambunctious fellow that had a lot of fun doing "the worm" and trying to distract the Hawks with his megaphone. And the biggest treat of all, the Bobcats had a little girl power on their team with two lady Bobcats playing on their JV squad.

The Hawks played a good game. A press along with good defense led to breakaway layups and good offense created a lot of open shots. We were able to see a number of Hawks on the floor for a good amount of time throughout the game and well balanced scoring across the team. How about that Rashaan, Haithem and Steven! Go Hawks!

Two threes from the corner by Thad, great backdoor layups by Danny with assists from Marcus, pick pocket action with breakaway layups from AJ and the Hawks coasted through each quarter of the game.

Up next, the Hawks enter a stretch in their schedule which will see them face seven league opponents in a row starting with Cardinal Stritch on Friday.

Congratulations to varsity coach, Jim Robinson, on his 500th career win!

Scoring - King 15, Woodard 10, Preston 7, Collins 4, Hazimah 4, Okeke 4,
Maaieh 3, MacPherson 3, Dick 2, Knabbs 2

Coach Robinson's 500th win - post game celebration

First, the immediate post-game




Next, the team gathers for pictures




Congratulatons from Jared, Rick, Nick and Dave







Finally, with Head of School Gary Boehm

MV - Bettsville on BCSN at midnight

Set your DVR's if you need to get your rest before finals...

MV 64 - Bettsville 43 - 1.18.11 Insightful Internet Commentary

Tonight's history-making story is brought to you by Dave Brown, Nick Frasco, Rick Deichert and Jared Sturt.

Sorry, I got Jared's point total wrong in the video - he had 16...

MV 64 – Bettsville 43 – 1.18.11 – Quick Summary

Coach Jim Robinson achieved a remarkable coaching milestone this evening, winning career game 500 as his Maumee Valley Hawks defeated the Bettsville Bobcats 64 – 43 at the Bettsville gym.

Jared Sturt led the way with 16 points, followed by Rick Deichert with 12, Julius Turner 9, Dixon Stoddard 8, Daniel Brandon 5, Omar Hazimah 4, Parker Bayer 4, Jonathan Krueger 2, Dave Brown 2 and Nick Frasco 2.

Everyone on the varsity roster played this evening, as Coach Robinson gave the starters the night off around the half way point in the third quarter.

The media was well represented at the game, which was broadcast on BCSN / TV 11 by MV alum Craig Choka plus coverage by Channels 13 and 24.

There will be a pre-game presentation to Coach Robinson before Friday’s home game against Cardinal Stritch. I would advise an early arrival for all the fans.

Steven Dick joins the Scoreapalooza ranks

Not only that, it's big Number 50's first career points wearing the Blue and White. 

Congratulations Steven, may you score many, many more in the coming years.

Maumee Valley 64 - Bettsville 43 - 500 wins for Coach R.

Coach Robinson needs a bigger shelf.

Congratulations coach, you've done more for the school than you know.

Search is available on this blog

Just an FYI, the search box above enables you to search the entire blog by key words.  So have at it... 

Bettsville Preview – Quant version

Fast facts


Opponent: Bettsville
Enrollment (9-12): 83
Division/League: D-IV / Midland Athletic League
Team Nickname: Bobcats

Bettsville capsule summary from the BlanchardRiverBuzz blog

HEAD COACH: Mike Haynes (2nd year, 16-26).

2009-10 RECORD: 11-10 overall, 5-6 Midland Athletic League.
2010-11 Record: 5-5, 2-3

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: Eric Bender, 6-3, sr., C/F, 5.7 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 0.5 apg; Brandon Butler, 6-1, sr., G/F, 5-0 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1.0 apg; Ryan Hartsel, 6-2, sr., C/F, 0.7 ppg, 0.8 rpg; Dakota Wright, 5-9, sr., G, 4.0 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 0.6 apg.

OTHER PROSPECTS: Dominic King, 5-10, jr., G; Dominic Miccichi, 6-2, jr., C/F; Taylor Blausey, 6-0, jr., G/F; Jacob Hossler, 6-0, jr., G.

Statistical analysis

Statistics are published by the MAL, and are through January 10, 2011 – nine games for Bettsville

Offense

Bettsville is 7th in the 12 team MAL averaging 51.7 per game. The Bobcats look like an up-tempo team. They have attempted 336 two point and 135 three point shots, ranking first in the league per game in both categories. Their shooting percentages are middle of the pack at 45% for two’s and at the low end of the three point percentage at 21%. Bettsville also gets to the line more than all but one MAL team, going 89-166, a 54% rate.

Bettsville features two top-ten MAL scorers, Senior Guard Dakota Wright, in 7th place with a 13.0 ppg average and Dominic Miccichi, 10th in MAL play averaging 12.0 points per game. Wright is second in the MAL in free throw percentage, converting 81.8% of his tries.

Senior Eric Bender is the top percentage shooter for Bettsville, firing in 53.6% of his shots, closely followed by Wright at 50.8%.

The Bobcats average 29 rebounds per game, fourth in the league. Senior Eric Bender averages 7.2 rebounds, 6th in the MAL, and Dominic Miccichi pulls 6.4 on average. The offense gives away about 18 turnovers per game.

Defense

As the up–tempo offense giveth, the up-tempo offense taketh away. The Bobcats rank 10th in MAL defense, surrendering 57.9 points per game. This appears to be principally a function of the number of inside shots the opponents get off. Bobcat foes have attempted 382 two point shots vs. 328 for Bettsville and are marginally more successful at 47%. This is partially offset by a lower number of threes attempted (101 vs. 135 for Bettsville) but again, the success rate of 23% is slightly higher than our upcoming opponents’.

Bettsville’s opponents have been to the line 170 times, which makes the Bobcats the hackin'-est team in the MAL by a big margin. They generate 17.9 turnovers per game, about as many as they have themselves.

Opponents average 30.4 rebounds per game against Bettsville, the third higest total for MAL foes. They appear to have some struggles on the offensive glass, giving up 101 offensive rebounds in nine games. Overall, Bettsville’s opponents average 1.4 more rebounds per game than the Bobcats.

Looking at the record

Bettsville has played only one game against a team with a better-than-.500 record, losing to MV scrimmage opponent, 6-5 Lake by a 68-47 score. The Bobcats are 2-0 against TAAC competition, defeating Danbury 54-45 on the Marblehead Peninsula and Northwood 57-53 on the Rangers home court.

Last year

MV won big at home, 63-43, then lost to the Bobcats in the first round of the Sectionals ending the Hawks 2009-10 season.

Weather woes??

Here’s your forecast from the NOAA website for the Bettsville area as of 6pm Monday.

Tuesday: Rain or freezing rain, becoming all rain after noon. High near 37. South wind 8 to 10 mph becoming west. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tuesday Night: Rain and snow likely, becoming all snow after 10pm. Cloudy, with a low around 19. North wind between 8 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Sheesh.

Hawkblog notes…if the game gets played, it could be Coach Robinson’s 500th win…several of Coach’s friends will be traveling to the game…Bettsville’s gym is a unique affair – a combination stage and gym…

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day

In addition to this being one of the most historically significant speeches in American History, this video is worth watching for other reasons. 

Soak in Dr. King's passion.  Listen to the magnificance of his voice.  Take time to understand the words.  Absorb his message that every person in America has the right to achieve their best.

See him as a man who dreamed big and sacrificed everything for his vision of what our Country could be. 






Remember him this day.  His dream lives on...

Scoreapalooza - January 16, 2011

Some boys varsity players are climbing the ladder...

MV Girls 26 – (at) Cardinal Stritch 23 – 1.15.11 – Character Building

Usually when the term character-building is used to describe a game, your team is on the losing end.

But not today(!), as the Maumee Valley girls let a lead slip in the fourth quarter, but came back at the end with some pressure-packed rebounding and free throw shooting to defeat the Cardinal Stritch Cardinals 26-23 at the CS home court. 

Starting the game - Delaney Lonsway (‘12), Jazmine Aldridge-Brownlee (‘12), Genna Danes (‘12), Wesley Flaum (‘12) and Kristin Bigelow (’12)

First quarter MV 8 – CS 4

Cardinal Stritch played a 3-2 base zone defense with a lot of pressing throughout the game. MV stayed mostly in its regular 2-3 zone.

Early scoring was fairly balanced between the two teams, who battled to a 4-4 tie over the first five minutes of play. MV took its first lead at the 2:52 mark when Kristin got the ball on a 3/4 court side in, flew down the court and passed to Delaney for the lay-up.




Kristin came right back with a two pointer (video above), and the Hawks took an 8-4 lead at the end of one.

Second Quarter MV 6 – CS 5

Starting the quarter – Well, to tell you the truth - in all this excitement, I'd kind of lost track myself…

Stritch was one of the few teams which had scouted the Hawks, and their first attempt at pressure was a 2-2-1 zone press. MV took advantage of this early in the quarter and was able to get the ball to Kristin for two early baskets. Stritch called off this press mid quarter and substituted in their tallest girls to get more rebounding power.

These changes caused the Hawks trouble on a few fronts. One was foul trouble. Both Delaney and Kristin picked up their third fouls during the quarter. Yazmin AbdelKarim spelled in for Delaney at the 5:19 mark. Jordan Baker saw significant playing time in the second quarter and picked up two fouls defending against the larger CS front line.

The Hawks also had problems passing over the zone, with interceptions on several consecutive offensive possessions. But the Hawks’ defense was stout and kept the Cardinals away from the hoop.

The second quarter ended with MV up by five, 14-9.

Third Quarter CS 11 – MV 4

Starting the quarter – Initial game starters

Cardinal Stritch made one big adjustment in the second half, switching their press from zone to man.

Initially, MV maintained their lead, with Kristin intercepting passes at the top of the Cardinals’ offensive sets. But the CS press gave the Hawks trouble and the home team whittled the lead down to four with 1:17 left. Kristin made a two pointer for MV to get the lead back to six points:




...but two Cardinal baskets in the last 39 seconds cut the Blue and White’s advantage to a single bucket, 20-18 at the quarter’s end.

From the third quarter, a pair of Kristin free throws




Fourth quarter – MV 6 – CS 5

Starting the quarter - initial game starters

CS opened strong with a running two pointer and a free throw on the next trip down to take the lead 21-20. Play was rough and tumble and both teams got into the bonus with 6:13 left in the game. Cardinal Stritch scored its fifth consecutive points in the quarter and held the lead 23-20.

It was look-in-the-mirror time for the girls...and they would respond.

Kristin slashed to the basket to draw the Hawks to within one near the four minute mark...




...and now it was the home team’s turn to deal with self-doubt.

At 3:17, the drama would increase when Kristin was called for her fourth foul; one more and she would be gone for the game. But Coach Mussery would not back down. He dialed up a half court trapping defense which rattled the Cardinals and the home team called time with 2:14 left.

Up by one, the home team tried to spread the floor and run out the clock. But after 45 seconds of success, Genna stole a pass, drove the length of the floor and was fouled. She would miss, and CS tried again to burn down the time. MV relied on defense and with 47.5 seconds remaining, they forced a back court violation and had the ball, down one point.

Kristin was fouled on the next posession and went to the line to shoot two. She missed both, which led to the Play of the Game.

On the second miss, Genna grabbed the rebound and was fouled trying to put the ball back up. This time she made both ends and the Hawks had clawed back to a one point lead.




Cardinal Stritch worked for a 10 foot shot to go back ahead and missed. Again, Genna pulled the ball in and was fouled. This time she made one of two and MV led by two, 25-23.

The Cardinals had the ball back and this time, drew a foul on their shot attempt. With 4.6 seconds left, they had a chance to tie. However, they missed both ends and Jasmine gathered in another huge rebound.




She went to the line and made one.




With a three point lead and little time left, all the Cardinals could do was heave a desperation three-ball from past the half court line. The shot never made the backboard and the Hawks pulled out the win.

Summary

So a big win for the Hawks, who are now 3-7 on the season. Next up is the Monclova Christian Thunder at home on Thursday evening. MV defeated the Thunder 45-13 in December.

Scoring

Kristin led all scorers with 20, but Genna (3) and Jasmine (1) scored at the most opportune time of the game. Delaney also had two for the victors.

MV girls 26 - Cardinal Stritch 23 - Insightful Internet Commentary

Genna and Jordan bear the glad tidings.

Bonus JV Videos - Hawks 44 - Northwood 27

Sometimes you get everyone making baskets, somtimes not.  Whole lotta Woodard tonight. 

But first up, it's Solomon Collins to the hoop.



Next up, Thad drives the baseline.



Cleaning up on a Princeton special.



Finally, in the tradition of Babe Ruth, the called bank shot.



That's all I got.

Chapter 9 – At the Proving Grounds – MV 66 – (at) Northwood 40 – 1.14.10 – Game story

Setting the Table

A Proving Ground originally was a designated area on a military base to test or ‘prove’ the effectiveness of weapons. Over time, this term was adapted by industry for their research and development facilities. Most of the large automakers have Proving Grounds, several of them within close proximity of Toledo.

At Maumee Valley, a prime example of a Proving Ground would be this room of the new High School.

Those tissues in the lower right-hand corner are for crying Frosh

Yes, it’s Tom Cambisios’ English classroom, where Freshman English papers go to die…and then be re-born out of a Phoenix-like brew of red ink, wrinkled-up papers and whiny Facebook posts.

Freshman English is one of the hardest courses at school, causing more all-nighters than a Dick Clark bash at Times Square. But inevitably, when MV graduates look back at their school experience they are thankful they went through that particular refining fire – because they emerge as writers.

For the Hawks basketball team, their Proving Ground is a January collection of TAAC and out-of-conference basketball courts. Two games per week, barring cancellations, through finals. It is a time for separation; time for MV to show that it can win night in and night out.

The goal for the Blue and White is to develop the mental toughness to win a series of games and establish themselves as a force in Conference play and again come playoff time. A slip-up, and suddenly they’re looking up at, and not eye-to-eye with the league leaders.

Following a winter weather cancellation Tuesday night, the Blue and White were itching to get back into action. They would find a worthy challenger in the Northwood Rangers, who sat just a game back in the TAAC standings at 2-2 compared with MV’s 3-1 record. A win for the home team and they would tie their guests this night. So the team had better be on its game.

It was also a night to shine on BCSN, as the game would be featured on the local cable network.

And a visit to Northwood wouldn’t be complete without a look at another TAAC constant, the Ranger pep band. Take it away ladies and gentlemen:



Game Summary

Maumee Valley defeated Northwood tonight 66-40 in a BCSN-televised game on the Rangers' home court. Several Hawks led the team at different stages of the game. In the first half, Dixon Stoddard and Julius Turner carried much of the load for the visitors, with quarter ending buzzer beaters by Parker Bayer (1st Q) and Nick Frasco (2nd Q).

Rick Deichert heated up in the second half, scoring 13 of his 16 points in the latter half of the contest. Jared Sturt was a steady hand throughout the game, finishing with a double-double (15 points, 11 rebounds).

MV was 16-26 from the line, including a 5-6 performance by Omar Hazimah in the fourth quarter.

Maumee Valley improved to 7-2 overall and 4-1 in TAAC play.

Coach Jim Robinson won his 499th career game, and now his Hawks head for Bettsville Tuesday evening to Strive for Five (hundred).

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Dixon Stoddard (’12) and Jonathan Krueger (’12)

First Quarter MV 15 – NW 12

Northwood started out in a 2-3 zone. MV started in straight man.

As if to remind the Hawks of their struggle at Northwood last year, the hosts went up quickly 4-0 on the strength of good screens which opened up space for two easy shots. MV started in its regular motion offense, and was very deliberate in trying to work the ball inside to the big men. And this strategy would pay off early as Jonathan Krueger opened the scoring with a turnaround jumper from short range at 5:06 to go. Dixon made a scooping two pointer on the next position to tie the score.

The teams traded two more baskets each early including Jared Sturt’s first two points on a pass in from Dave Brown and a Dixon Stoddard two pointer. It was 6-6 at the 2:57 mark when the Hawks went to the bench for the cavalry.

Yeah, you know who I'm talkin' about.

The game speed would ratchet up a notch with Julius now in the game and MV went to the man press. Northwood beat the pressure and scored on a wide-open layup the first time out, but after an MV miss, Dave stole the ball and started a Rick to Jared to Dixon fast break for two.

Julius scored his first of eight points on an offensive putback. MV continued the heat with a half court trap, leading to a Julius steal and coast-to-coast driving basket. After another Ranger miss, Rick led a fast break which ended with a Dixon Stoddard foul shot.

It was Dixon’s best quarter of the season, shouldering a big part of the opening offensive load.

Northwood scored twice again to draw to 13-12 and near the end of the first quarter, Nick Frasco and Parker Bayer entered the game at the guard spots. The move would pay off, as Parker nailed a turnaround two pointer as the horn sounded and MV held a three point lead.

Second Quarter MV 16 – NW 9

Starting the quarter – Dave, Nick, Julius, Jonathan and Dixon

Julius started the quarter where he left off, driving the lane for two points then blocking a shot. MV went to work on the Northwood 2-3 zone more effectively, and a Dave to Julius to Jared passing hookup led to two free throws for the Hawk Center.

MV switched into the press again, which sped up play. Northwood’s guards were up to the task this ime and broke pressure scoring several baskets to draw the hosts to within 19-16 at the 5:03 mark.

Displeased with his team’s defensive effort, Coach Robinson called a time out to straighten things out, with good effect. Jared blocked the next shot then cleaned up at the offensive end with an offensive rebound and putback basket.

Meanwhile, MV’s man press started to wear on Northwood.  Julius stole the ball, drove to the hoop and drew the foul with 3:46 remaining. He made the first and then an unusual Technical Foul was called on Northwood for an illegal substitution. Northwood Sophomore Trey Cloud had failed to change out of his JV uniform and the Home bench was called for inserting a player with an incorrect uniform number.

Julius made the back end of his two free throws, Rick Deichert scored his first point of the game, making one of two on the technical and it was 24-16 Hawks.

Play continued back and forth to the end of the quarter. With a 28-21 lead, Dave dribbled a grand circle route, passed to Jared who missed a shot but got it back out to Nick Frasco for a big three-ball to end the half. Here is the proof:



That was a BEAUTY.

MV went to the locker room with a ten point lead, 31-21.

Third Quarter MV 15 – NW 8

Starting the quarter – Initial game starters

Northwood chose to stay in its 2-3 zone, a logical decision given that the Hawks outside shooting was colder than the January night in the first half. This would change…

Jon Krueger began the half for MV with a mid range jumper. But both teams were sloppy offensively in the early going until Rick Deichert decided to break out.

At 5:34, Rick rattled a three-ball in, then took a quick breather on the bench. Jared blocked a shot with authority. Dave Brown gathered the rebound and darted down-court, finishing with a highlight-reel twisting crossover reverse layup.

Northwood called time out with 4:32 left, but could not dampen the visitors’ intensity. Dave continued to drive the lane, but kicked out to Jon Krueger for the three:




Julius entered the game for Jared and MV was out to run with its smaller front line. Rick provided the offensive spark down the stretch with a three pointer off an in bounds play…



, a classic back door play





, then with Northwood trying a press, a home run pass from Dixon off the inbounds for another basket + 1, which he converted.

At the end of three, the Hawksquad had taken a commanding 46-29 lead.

Fourth Quarter MV 20 – NW 11

MV began the scoring early with Jared converting on the break and adding a free throw for an old-fashioned three pointer 22 second into the quarter.

Northwood’s coach John Bryan, looking to establish a deeper rotation, inserted two freshman guards at this point. They would receive an early introduction to MV basketball when Dave and Rick trapped the next possession and Rick fired down court for another basket + 1.





After a tough first half, Rick would end the game with 16 points on the night.

Many players for both sides saw action in the fourth quarter, and the Hawks continued to work hard on both ends of the court. Here is a strong defensive sequence ending in a tieup:





In other fourth quarter action:

Julius with a great fake and pass to Jared for a deuce.






Here's Nick with a power move down low.



Jared drives the lane for two:



And strong offensive rebounding by Julius and Dixon





Down the stretch, Omar Hazimah worked the inside to his advantage. He drew three shooting fouls late and converted five of six at the line. At game’s end, the Hawks were represented by Omar, Daniel Brandon, Nick Frasco, Parker Bayer and Thad Woodard.

The final buzzer sounded with the score Maumee Valley 66 – Northwood 40.

Final Game Thoughts

It’s always good to have another perspective on the game and watching the BSCN game broadcast with Kevin Brechmacher and Coach Stan Joplin was a pleasure. They complimented Maumee Valley all evening and were most impressed with the Hawks athleticism. They provided some good perspective on the Hawks’ program, stressing how far the team has come in the three years under Coach Robinson’s tenure.

As has been the case in previous games, the team is getting accustomed to seeking the hot hand and cashing in during the game. Tonight’s spark was provided by Dixon and Julius early, then by Rick in the late third/early fourth quarter. Jared provided steady offense throughout the game.

On defense, MV thrived with pressure, both full and half court. The press has gradually worn down the last few Hawk opponents and has led to scoring flurries which have put the game away in the second half.

Tidbits…

Julius was named the BCSN player of the game for the spark he brought to Maumee Valley in the first half.

- Very few teams have played man-to-man defense against the Hawks, who should be running the zone defense attack in their sleep.

- MV alumni Carter Bayer and Jangus Whitner, along with 50/50 ticket purveyor extraordinaire Jeff and the rest of the Whitner gang were in the house for the game. Great to see you all!

- Northwood trombone player Jeff Ritter braved enemy lines to visit last night during the third quarter.

- Also seen were Faculty Alumni Chuck and Karen Lundholm.

Scoring

Scoring for the Hawks: Rick Dee-kurt 16, Jared Sturt 15, Julius Turner 8, Dixon Stoddard 6, Nick Frasco 5, Omar Hazimah 5, Jonathan Krueger 5, Dave Brown 4, Parker Bayer 2.

Next up

The Hawks travel to Bettsville this Tuesday evening. Look sharp lads, you’re on the verge of history!