By Staff
Monday evening was a sad one for Niles' varsity basketball team as the Lady Vikes' season was ended to Gull Lake in the Class B Regional semifinal game.
Although it's a hard loss, especially for the seven seniors who will not get another shot next year, Niles should be walking out with nothing but pride.
What this basketball program has offered to these athletes and will continue to offer for year's to come is something most other schools in this area can't compete with.
All of the hard work, dedication and the will to be the best has payed off big time for the Vikings.
One reason this program has been so successful is the fact that a lot of these young athletes grow up playing on travel basketball teams, allowing them to play in the off season. This gives players tough competition and enables them get that extra work in before reaching the varsity level.
Another reason is the talented coaching staff this area has. Most players get their start at the YMCA, where all coaches are volunteers and just coach for fun. They teach our children the fundamentals needed and how the game is played.
The junior high coaches are the next step in preparing our children for the high school level. In fact, the girls' basketball teams finished excellent seasons recently.
The freshman team also finished the season very well, posting a 20-0 record.
A very good sign for the future of Niles basketball.
Head coach Jim Arnold is one of the most dedicated coaches around. Coach Arnold, along with future Vikings, give up their summer sleep-in sessions for hard work in the gym, another key that makes this program as strong as it is.
Coach Arnold has been the Vikings head coach for 37 years now and has seen nine straight district titles won. He has won numerous awards for his coaching ability and he doesn't look to give up anytime soon.
So Lady Vikes, while your season may have ended sooner than you wanted it to, be happy with the fact that you have so much to offer this community.
The fans that follow you, the performance you put on and the fact that you make Niles basketball such a threat to other schools is something that should keep your head high for years to come.
Thanks for the memories Niles and thanks for another great season of Vikings basketball.