JV Boys Hit the Big Time

  On February 10, Northwest Christian Academy’s JV Boys Basketball team was given the chance of a lifetime when they had the opportunity to play under the lights of the American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat. The JV Boys weren’t the only ones to join in on the fun; roughly 40 middle and high school students and even a few teachers traveled to the Arena to have their own courtside experience and cheer their team on.

  The game kicked off as freshman Christopher Villard took the court for tipoff, joined by fellow starters Courtney Roberts (9), Rashad Woodside (8), Samuel Roger (8), and Carl Fanfan (8). Although the game started a little slower than usual for the Eagles, the team finished the first quarter with a 6-3 lead over the Champagnat Lions. Nevertheless, the boys went on to hold the lead for most of the game. Then, in the final, thrilling minutes of the fourth quarter, the Eagles solidified their lead with a 32-26 victory over the Lions.

   Under the direction of Head Coach Jerry Nelson and Assistant Coach Jon Sapp, the JV Boys shined. Christopher Villard led in rebounds, grabbing ten balls off the boards. Samuel Roger was close behind, with seven rebounds to his name. Rashad Woodside made waves with four steals, and Samuel and Carl Fanfan followed with two steals apiece.
So how did it feel to play on the same court as Dwayne Wade and Michael Beasley? “It was a wonderful experience, a dream come true,” small forward Samuel says. Rashad agrees. “It felt great,” he responds with a grin. “It makes you feel like you’re worth something.”

   Congratulations boys! We’re so proud of you and the character you displayed on and off the court. We also want to give a special thank you to Varsity head coach Martinez, who secured the opportunity for our boys to play.