The gymnasium is dark. A spotlight roams over the crowd of roaring fans before illuminating down on the players being introduced by the announcer.
This opening presentation was displayed by the New London Bulldogs at every girl’s home basketball game the second half of this season.
The first time I saw this opening presentation I was amazed. Amazed at how the energy in the gym escalated tremendously. The Bulldog fans on their feet, cheering and clapping their hands. The players pumped with adrenaline and anticipation. Band members proudly playing their school song before the basketball game got underway.
Throughout it all, I thought to myself; wow! This is a high school basketball game. I have never attended a game quite like this, not even when I was in high school.
The energy from students, parents, players and all the Bulldog fans intensified as the season progressed. Even at the play-off games it seemed like the Bulldogs fans tripled that of the opponent fans.
Since graduating from New London High School in 2004, I have not attended an entire season of girl’s basketball games. Why did I decide this was the year to remedy my attendance status? The answer is two reasons.
One, my sister started her first year playing high school basketball. Two, I had read about the success of the Lady Bulldogs in previous years and I wanted to see for myself just how talented these girls are.
You truly cannot comprehend the success of this team until you have seen them on the court.
I was truly amazed just how talented and outstanding these girls are as individual players and as a team.
They give 110 percent on the court at every game. Even when they’re leading by 40-50 plus points, the momentum of the team is constant.
Their hard work and determination to win has driven them down the road to the state championship.
Congratulations to the players and coaches on a successful season. May you make your team dream a reality by bringing the Division 2 Championship home to New London.