On the weekend of March 2-3, four high school basketball teams within a 20 mile radius of the Augusta area played for state championships.

Unfortunately, all four — the Cony, Hall-Dale and Richmond girls and the Gardiner boys — came away empty-handed. The regional success was unprecedented, however, and although the teams were recognized as runners-up with medals at their state games, they’ll be honored again at the Calumet Club in Augusta at a banquet May 3.

Each player and coach will be presented with a foot-high pewter trophy noting this year’s accomplishments.

“They need something a little more to put on their mantle,” said Jerry Bechard, who is first vice president at the club.

The club has honored state champions in the past, including all seven of the Cony girls teams that came away with titles. Former coach Paul Vachon was even presented a replica gold ball, but regional winners weren’t usually part of the ceremonies.

“I think it’s fantastic,” Cony girls coach Karen Magnusson said. “It’s a great honor to local teams. I think it’s important for people in the community to support other teams in the area.”

Magnusson’s Rams finished the season at 21-1, losing to Catherine McAuley High in the Class A state final. The Gardiner boys finished at 19-3, maing their first trip ever to a state championship game where they lost to Yarmouth.

“It’ll be fun,” Gardiner coach Jason Cassidy said of the banquet. “I like networking with other coaches. My wife teaches in Richmond and I’ve stayed close with the Magnussons.”

Karen Magnusson’s husband Travis won the boys Class C state championship last month coaching at Dirigo High School.

The Hall-Dale girls lost by a point to Central in the Class C state title game. Last year, the Bulldogs won the state championship and that accomplishment will be noted on this year’s trophy for those players who played a year ago. The six Hall-Dale players who graduated from that team will also receive trophies.

Richmond finished 20-2 this season and won its second straight Western Maine Class D championship. Just about all the players on the basketball team also play softball and have a game scheduled on May 3. Bechard said the trophies will be taken to the high school for a ceremony at a later date.

A spaghetti dinner at 6 p.m. will precede the trophy presentation and is open to the public at a cost of $5. Tickets can be obtained at the door or by calling 623-9874.

Gary Hawkins — 621-5638
ghawkins@centralmaine.com

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