Fans devoted to their Pirates

PERKINS TWP. — They're not parents of players. They're not employees of the school. They're not even graduates of the district. But what spouses Jason and Lisa Odell are: Staunch supporters of the Perkins Pirates boys basketball team. "I just love to watch the boys play," said Lisa, who works as a paraprofessional for North Point Educational Service Center Added Jason, who's employed at Penske Logistics in Clyde: "They have great sportsmanship, every single one of those players. I like to see how they interact. If someone falls, one of their teammates is always there to pick them up. They are always giving high fives and wishing each other luck. That's a real team." Regardless of record, amid peaks and valleys, the Odells, who reside in Perkins, have shown up to nearly every single boys basketball game for the past four seasons. Their son — Jonny Silvis, a senior at Perkins who also attends EHOVE Career Center — often tags along. "I like going because it's my home school, and I like to support my team," Silvis said. Their favorite game, to date, came on Saturday when all three attended the regional championship victory — the first in program history — at Bowling Green State University. "It was incredible," Silvis said. Lisa, who's originally from Amherst, then chimed in: "I was at a loss for words. The team played amazing. They did exactly what they needed to do and that was to get a win and do so by playing aggressively." Saturday's win granted the Pirates a spot in the elusive final four for Division IV in the boys basketball state tournament. Because of this, Perkins advanced to the state semifinal game, scheduled for noon on Thursday at Wright State University in Dayton. If the Pirates win this matchup, then they advance to a state championship game on Friday at the University of Dayton Arena. The Odells, who also attend every Pirates football game, already booked a hotel on Thursday night. They plan on staying in the Dayton area for two games, confident in their home squad's capabilities. "They have just got to keep their minds in the game," said Jason, who's originally from Naples, Florida. "If they don't have their heads in the game, they'll beat themselves." Every now and again, at a game, a parent will approach the Odells, asking them who they're here for. The spouses smile and take turns, responding in a similar fashion. "We support everyone," said Jason, noting he and Lisa are often the first fans to arrive at each Pirates game — sitting up six rows up, front and center — catching the freshman and junior varsity action leading to the varsity contest. "We just love youth sports." Many people appreciate their unrivaled and unwavering support. This would include Drew Davie, Perkins High School's assistant principal. He's also an assistant coach on the team. "Lisa and Jason are the definition of what high school sports are all about," said Davie, whose son, Bryce, plays for the Pirates. "Their energy and support mean a lot to our players and coaches. Jonny is right there with them as one of our biggest fans. Our program truly appreciates the dedication their family has shown over the years."