Vanderhoof’s Nechako Valley Vikings senior boys basketball team finished in 12th place overall at the provincials in Langley after losing 62-40 in a hard-fought battle to the Summerland Rockets on Saturday (March 12).
Vikings coach Gary Simrose said they made a bit of a comeback on Thursday after being bumped to the consolation games and then dropped to 11th place after losing to Prince Rupert’s Charles Hays Rainmakers on Friday.
Before the game on Saturday Simrose said the team was still feeling positive and had gained valuable experience for future events. He said win or lose, the last game was “basically for pride.”
He said they would do their best and let the chips fall where they may. A few of the boys will be playing again next year while others are graduating and trying to make a team at the next level.
“They’re a cheerful bunch and they certainly appreciate the opportunity to be able to get out and play and compete. From my perspective, it’s really great to see the kids out playing again,” Simrose said.
“Certainly they will look at doing some things to get better so that they’re more competitive, then come back and take another run at the zone championship and try and get down here again.”
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He said this year the team made the decision not to do overnights until restrictions started to ease off. So, the trip to Langley was new and exciting for them.
He said the team has been sportsmanlike throughout the season and he’s proud of what they accomplished despite all the setbacks that came with the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think from the athletes’ perspective what’s important is how much time and effort they put into improving and developing their skills. They represent the school and community with a lot of class and enthusiasm.”
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