(previous)
The team earned the crown March 14 with an 81-44 trouncing of Western Massachusetts champion Hoosac Valley at Worcester’s DCU Center.
LoPresti called the experience of chasing the title, which also had them play on the Boston Celtics’ famous parquet floor, “the best week of coaching I’ve had in my 11 years working in Milton.”
LoPresti, who was named Division 2 coach of the year, said the team was successful because of its chemistry and trust in one and other.
Superintendent Mary Gormley described it as one of her proudest moments in over 30 years working in the school system.
She said what made her proudest was how the team shared their achievements with other students and residents.
“I don’t think there’s any student who doesn’t feel they’re a part of this team,” she said.
School Committee Chair Beirne Lovely said the team gave the town something to cheer during a time of financial uncertainty.
“This is one of the most wonderful things that could’ve happened to us as a community,” he said.
Committee member Lynda-Lee Sheridan added that people from other communities were telling her Milton brought more fans to their games than most teams.
Lovely said he even had to sit on the opposing team’s side of the court during one game because the Milton-side seats were filled.
Member Chris Huban complimented the team for having a deep pool of “exceptional players.”
LoPresti praised Gormley for traveling with the team on the fan bus to the Worcester title game.
“I don’t think you’d find another superintendent who would do that,” he said.
The team was welcomed by a group of fans when they got back to Milton High.
The Selectmen also took time out of their meeting March 19 to congratulate the boys on their title win.
“It’s not often we get to be in the presence of state champions,” Selectman Chair Kathy Fagan said.
Selectman John Shields wished the 11 graduating seniors on the team good luck. He told them not to forget the town and their accomplishments here.
“They’re going on to great things,” said Milton High Principal Dr. John Drottar.
Standout senior guard Marcus McDermott was named to The Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic Teams and was named Herget League MVP, LoPresti said.
When asked what’s next, the answer among the teammates was unanimous: “repeat.”
|