Pirates parade for players

PERKINS TWP. — The Perkins High School boys basketball team has exceeded expectations throughout its season, according to head coach Andy Hoying. And now the team has the community's full support as players, coaches and other personnel head to Dayton in hopes of making school history. On Wednesday morning, the district hosted a send-off celebration at the high school. Students, staff members and many parents of basketball players attended. The event started in the high school gym where members of the school's other winter-related athletics and activities received recognition for their seasons — including bowling, wrestling, swimming and mock trial — before honoring each member of the basketball and cheer teams. "These guys have been great all year," Hoying said. Before the season started, the basketball team set three goals: • Compile at least an 18-4 regular season record; The team went 20-2. • Win a Sandusky Bay Conference championship; The team went 9-1 and completed its goal for the first time in nine years. • Win a district title; The team achieved this feat for the first time in 13 years. The Pirates then went on to win a regional title on Saturday at Bowling Green State University. The supporters of the basketball team have been phenomenal, according to Hoying, specifically mentioning parents, fans and the student section. He urged everyone to keep the same energy as the boys' season continues. Team members, like senior Levi Groot, have also noticed the school's and community's support not only through their attendance at the send-off but also in their encouragement around the township. "I've seen it happen for football and baseball, and I was proud of those guys, but it feels good to have it for basketball," Groot said. "Even this morning, I was driving out of Kroger, and I saw a sign that said 'Good luck Perkins final four.' Just those little things mean so much." Win or lose these next two games, Groot said he is happy with his team's performance this year, pointing out the preseason goals accomplished. He said making it this far "feels unreal" — and to do it all as a senior means he can go out with a bang. After the assembly, the Perkins High School students lined the hallways, cheering for the team as players made their way to the bus destined for Dayton. Before hitting the road, the bus drove by Briar Middle School where the younger students waved and wished them luck. This marks the first time in program history Perkins has appeared in a boys basketball state final four. Here's a look at the schedule: • Thursday: The team will play in a state seminfial at noon at Write State University in Dayton. The high school will have a day off to give its staff and students the chance to watch the state semifinal game in person. • Friday: If the Pirates win their state semifinal, then they'll play in the state championship game at 4:15 p.m. Friday at the University of Dayton Arena. If Perkins plays in this game, then all high school personnel will only be required to attend classes for half the day.