A look back at local sports in 2018
Dante Geislinger is declared victor.
As New Year is upon us here in Chenango County, let’s take a look at some of the local sports stories that captivated us throughout 2018...
B-G’s Palmatier and Selfridge join 1,000 Point Club
Published December 28 and 29
BAINBRIDGE – Bainbridge-Guilford’s Megan Palmatier started the game against Tioga on Wednesday seven points shy of 1,000 points over her Bobcat career. Scoring six in the first half, Palmatier went into the intermission with the monkey on her back.
Nailing an free-throw early in the third, the crowd roared as she became the sixth player in Bainbridge-Guilford’s girls basketball history to hit the 1,000 point milestone.
The following night, she recorded the assist on the monumental point for her long-time teammate, Abi Selfridge.
Abi Selfridge started Thursday’s championship contest against the Deposit/Hancock Eagles six points shy of reaching her 1,000 point career. Following Kori Thornton’s opening bucket for the Lady Bobcats, Selfridge dropped in two baskets, leaving her just one away from the milestone.
While the ping-pongesque game between the two teams was going on, the local fans were all on edge, waiting for Selfridge to get the one score that stood in the way. The first quarter ended at 14-11, in favor of B-G and the fans still halted for a moment.
It was at the 6:49 mark in the second quarter when the stand erupted in a roaring cheer as the ball dropped from the net, coming from Selfridge’s hands for a basket she won’t forget.
Mr. 1K: Jackson Reaches 1,000 Career Points
Published February 16
NEW BERLIN – Andrew Jackson released his shot late in the second quarter and all fans waited silently as the ball soared through the air with all eyes in the gym following.
The moment the ball went through the basket, the crowd went crazy as Jackson scored his 1,000th point on a long three-pointer in the second quarter of their late game win over the Sidney Warriors on Thursday night.
Jackson and teammate Levi Rifanburg combined for 49 of the Storm’s 56 points to lead Unadilla Valley past the Warriors but not without some late game dramatics.
The first half of the game between the two teams was separated by a single point with the advantage leaning towards Sidney. The Warriors extended their lead to seven in the third with a 16-10 score in the quarter. At one point in the fourth, Unadilla Valley had trailed by as many as 10 points.
But collectively, Jackson and Rifanburg totaled 16 points to overcome the deficit. Also in the stanza, the Storm’s Caleb Parker knocked down a three-pointer, aiding in the fourth quarter comeback effort by the home team.
Jackson capped his landmark night with 26 points, eight rebounds and six assists.
Geislinger crowned New York State Champion; 6 county wrestlers stand on podium this weekend
Published February 26
ALBANY – Six of the nine Chenango County wrestlers placed at this weekend’s New York State Wrestling Championship. Norwich’s 99-pound Dante Geislinger came home a State Champion, the first for the school since 2015 when the Tristan Rifanburg and Frankie Garcia both brought home a title.
In front of a packed house at the Times Union Center in Albany, Geislinger came back from an early 2-0 deficit to top Section III’s Devin Coleman of Camden by a final of 9-4 for the decision win in the 99-pound Division II final Saturday night in the NYSPHSAA Wrestling Championships.
Geislinger reached the finals by taking down top-seeded Mason Bush of Central Valley. Geislinger avenged by taking a 6-2 decision win, pulling off the big upset.
With about 50 seconds left in the second period, Geislinger set up his shot that led to a takedown and then three back points for a 5-2 lead. Geislinger added another two back points as he put Coleman on his back again late in the second period.
Geislinger added another point with Coleman against deciding to go to neutral position. With a 9-2 lead in the third, Coleman took Geislinger down and tried to set up the comeback win. But the Norwich wrestlers lead was too much and ended with the 9-4 decision win, grabbing the state title. As the fifth-seed, Geislinger was the only Section IV winner and one of three in the finals.
Norwich’s seniors Ty Rifanburg finished sixth and Brennan Slater placed fourth in their respective weight classes while Tyler Rice and Mike Squires were the other two wrestlers that placed for the Tornado after earning spots two weeks ago by winning their weight class at the Section IV Championship two weeks ago.
Bainbridge-Guilford-Afton-Harpursville’s Ben Bivar, Shane Hoover, and Mike Wilmot all made it to the state tournament. Bivar and Hoover placed. Oxford’s Cooper Rice was also a participant, the first of his career
No. 1 Lady Bobcats Claw Through Tough Senecas For Section IV Title
Published March 5
CORTLAND – With 10.9 seconds remaining, the always large and electric fans of the Lady Bobcats roared to a standing ovation as they knew the Bainbridge-Guilford squad secured their first Section IV Championship since the ‘98-’99 season with a final over the Watkins Glen Senecas, 59-48.
In a situation that they have been in the last four years, the Bobcats entered the game knowing this year was going to be different as they were facing the defending Class C state champs.
Erica Selfridge stepped inside the paint for a jumper. She normally doesn’t enter the middle but Erica did. And she came up big. Selfridge hit the shot and got the foul called for the and-1 play. Making the free-throw, Erica Selfridge put the Bobcats back on top by four, a lead that wasn’t tested again.
“That was a big, big play,” Conway said. “She’s a freshman and she doesn’t like going into that paint too much. She doesn’t like the physicality. But I told her before the game if you get a chance to drive you’ve got to go in there. Today is the day you have to make yourself be a little bit more aggressive. So she did.”
55.6 seconds showed on the clock and Watkins Glen started to foul to stop the clock. Bainbridge-Guilford came up big at the foul line, finishing 9-for-12 down the stretch. Early in the contest, Palmatier struggled a little at the line. But when it matter, Palmatier came up big as she shot 6-for-8 in the last minute at the line.
“Once [Watkins Glen] started fouling and we started walking to the free throw line, I said this game is over,” Conway said.
Clock Doesn’t Strike Midnight On Cinderella Story Storm; UV Wins First Sectional Title In Program History
Published March 5
CORTLAND – Repeating their performance from Tuesday night, the Unadilla Valley Storm jumped out to an early first quarter lead. That lead was tested a few times throughout the contest but the Storm grinded out the win, crowning themselves the Section IV Class C champions for the first time the Unadilla Valley program history by taking down the four-seed Tioga, 58-48.
With 3:43 remaining, the game was tied after the Tigers’ Pierce Hendershot nailed his third consecutive three-pointer from the left corner. The next trip down the floor for Tioga, Hendershot was sitting in the corner ready to knock down his fourth. Out of nowhere, Grey sends the shot out of bounds, coming up with the huge block.
The Storm fans, on their feet, were nearly uncontrollable after Grey’s big defensive stop. After taking an accidental hand to the face, Dye was on the bench and Caleb Parker subbed in for him. Coming in ice cold, Parker received a pass from Jackson and finished strong at the rim.
On four straight possessions, UV’s Andrew Jackson tallied an assist and his teammates were knocking down the shots. Rifanburg under the rim, scored four straight points and Grey drilled home his third three of the game, putting the nail in the coffin as the Storm went up eight for good.
After a few free-throws, the final score was 58-48 and UV claimed the Section IV Class C title.
Jackson finished the game with a double-double, scoring 25 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. He also tallied seven assists.
Jackson averaged 25 points per game during the Section IV tournament, with one game scoring 40, a new school record.
Purple Tornado Win First Sectional Game In 15 Years
Published May 18
OWEGO – For the first time since 2003, the Norwich Purple Tornado baseball team ended a Section IV playoff game with a win after topping the Owego Indians 2-1 Thursday afternoon.
The scoreboard stayed 0-0 for the first the innings. In the top of the fourth, it finally changed.
As the lead-off batter for Norwich, J.T. Vinal faced a 1-2 count. Needing to make contact to avoid the first out of the inning, Vinal smashed a hard ground ball to Owego’s shortstop for a single.
Just one pitch later, the Purple Tornado’s Marcus Cashman sent a line drive to the right fielder. His hit sent Vinal home from first, scoring the first run of the inning and the first by either team for the game. Cashman landed a second for a double.
Mike Trevisani stepped up to the plate two batters later for the visiting team. Ready to drive in his teammate on second, Trevisani swung on the first pitch of the at-bat but missed for strike one. The next pitch he saw, he sent to center field.
Owego’s center fielder Dylan Simpson fielded the ball and relayed it to home plate. Cashman was sent home by Norwich Head Coach Rich Turnbull. The timing of both actions happening created a play at the plate.
As described by Turnbull, Cashman made a “beautiful” slide to avoid the tag put on by the Indians catcher and to score the second run for the Purple. Trevisani stopped at second base for his RBI double.
It turned out to be the game-winning offensive play for Norwich.
In the sixth inning, the Tornado’s Tanner Franklin made the game-saving defensive play to hold onto the lead.
Owego’s Luke Kiballa sent a shot into the gap of center field and right field. Getting a good jump on the ball, Franklin made a running catch to end the sixth inning. “If he doesn’t make that catch, Owego at least ties the game,” said Turnbull. The Indians had a runner on second.
“We have worked hard to get to this and it paid off...it’s not about one person it’s a total program effort and a lot of people were part of this win,” said Turnbull.
“I’m proud of the guys and would like to thank community for supporting us. We have received a lot of congratulations and we couldn’t have done it with everyone’s support”
Norwich Tournament Directors To Be Inducted Into Gus Macker Hall Of Fame
Published July 13
NORWICH – At the time, Jamey Mullen was the Program Director when he, Dave Sherman and a group of people met about ideas to bring some kind of new event to Norwich, – an event that would really put the city on the map.
Michelle Gleeson, now Morgan, mentioned that she knew friends from Michigan who run a national 3-on-3 basketball tournament. “Norwich was a town I knew the people from Gus Macker would love.”
Morgan was asked by Mullen to reach out to her friends, which she did.
Now, Gus Macker is currently playing the 23rd tournament on East Main Street in the City of Norwich. Mullen, who is now the executive director of the Norwich Family YMCA, will be joined by his directing partner Tom Revior will be inducted into the Gus Macker Hall of Fame in August.
The Gus Macker Basketball Hall of Fame has inducted a new class every five years during anniversary celebrations since the 25th anniversary of the touring three-on-three basketball tournaments company. Gus Macker, based in Belding, Michigan, celebrates 45 years this summer.
Together, Mullen and Revoir have led the YMCA’s Norwich efforts in hosting a Gus Macker tournament for the last 22 years.
When asking them what they had to say about the honor, the two inductees stated nearly the same.
“Definitely flattered,” said Mullen. “The fact that we have been doing it for so long and it’s been consistent can make it feel like an MLB player who hits 3,000 hits over a long career and you get recognized in the hall of fame for doing something like that.”
“When we travel to Michigan, we are definitely representing the whole community and the Norwich Macker for the 23 years it has been going. That’s everybody behind us and still for those to come and help volunteer.”
Revoir added, “As much as I am excited about the induction to the Hall of fame, I’m going to say pretty much the same thing that Jamey said.”
“I strongly believe that if it wasn’t for all of the volunteers and all of our sponsors, we wouldn’t be where we are today. I am honored and humbled but this is an honor for Norwich, not just for Jamey and I.”
Crimson Knights Claim First Section IV Title Since 2006; Afton Scores 11 In Shut Out Win
Published October 29
GREENE – Madison Baciuska and Casey East combined for six of their team’s 11 goals scored as the Afton Crimson Knights captured the Section IV Class B field hockey title Friday evening, the first for the program since 2006, when they won at the Class C level.
The Crimson Knights scored their first goal just 39 seconds into in the game as East dribbled into the box and rifled home a shot from close range. Following the first goal, Afton came away with an additional six in the half, ending the first 30 minutes of play with a 7-0 lead.
“One of the goals we set coming into this game was to score within the first five minutes,” said Crimson Knights’ head coach Josh Conover. “We wanted to make an impact immediately and to score in the first 39 seconds was pretty good.”
Baciuska, a Wake Forest commit, had four goals for the Crimson Knights. Her first came after dodging her way through the Owego defense to get close to the goal and putting the ball into the back of the cage with 16:40 remaining in the first, giving Afton a 4-0 lead.
“I haven’t processed the win quite yet but I think it’s great for the girls and the program,” said Conover.
A season ago, Afton reached the championship game against Whitney Point at the Class C level but lost to the now five-time Section IV Champion, 4-0.
Trojans Take Down heavily Favored Warriors In Class D Section IV Semifinals
Published October 29
JOHNSON CITY – The Greene Trojans pulled off the biggest upset of the season, beating the previously undefeated Sidney Warriors 24-23 in Saturday’s Class D, Section IV semifinal game held at Johnson City High School.
The boys of Greene didn’t the win as an upset through.
“I think it was an upset to most outside of our players,” said said Trojans’ head coach Dave Gorton. “We have lost a few close games in odd plays against them recently so we felt confident we would win. Our boys expected to win the game and I don’t think our players think it’s an upset. All the coaches are very proud of our players.”
The Trojans’ defense forced Sidney’s quarterback Ryan Harris to his second lowest yard and completion total of the season, allowing the QB to record 236 yards passing on 15 of 30 attempts. Greene picked off five of Harris’ passes, matching his interception total through the regular season.
Logan Kennedy grabbed two of the five takeaways for the Trojans, leading Greene in the column.
Sidney took the first quarter lead, scoring the only touchdown in the opening 12 minutes of play. By the end of the half, the Warriors’ tacked on another score while Greene added one touchdown of their own to show 14-6 on the scoreboard.
By the intermission, Harris tossed a touchdown pass to his receiver Peyton Mosher and the Warriors picked up a score on the ground from the standout running back David Gannon. Greene’s score came from quarterback Nate Erickson. Gannon ended the afternoon with 18 carries for 34 yards and the one first half touchdown.
In the second half, the Trojans’ closed in on Sidney. Greene’s Erickson found Tristan Austin down field for a touchdown in the third, bringing the 14-6 deficit down to two points with a quarter to play.
The first four minutes of the fourth turned into a shoot-out between the two teams as three touchdowns were exchanged in the time span.
To start the final 12 minutes, the Trojans’ started with the ball on the Warriors’ three yard line. 10 seconds later, Erickson punched the ball into the end zone to give Greene their first lead of the game at 18-14. A Harris-Trenton Budine connection ended the next drive in the end zone as Sidney marched down the field, needing a minute and half to take the 21-18 advantage.
The final touchdown of the scoring stretch ended with Greene as Erickson once again passed for the touchdown, hooking up with Noah Kennedy to regain the lead for good with eight minutes remaining in the contest.
Sidney tacked a safety in the last three minutes of play, scoring the last points of the game but it was not enough as the Trojans captured the win.
Official Business: Afton Field Hockey Standout Signs Letter To Play D-I
Published November 15
AFTON – She started playing the sport at the age of four. By eighth grade, she was traveling to one day clinics held at colleges up and down the east coast. She returned from her first New York State championship appearance on Sunday after reaching the semifinals.
On Wednesday – with many family, friends, teachers, and younger athletes who look up to her – Madison Baciuska of the Afton Crimson Knights Field Hockey program signed her national letter of intent to play at Wake Forest for the next four years
Baciuska, a member of the varsity team since seventh grade, knew she wanted to go to Wake Forest after attending a clinic with a friend in the eighth grade.
Many offers were on the table for the field hockey standout, most from the NCAA Division-I level. A recruiting trip to to one school and a visit to another, nothing made Baciuska feel more at home than Wake Forest.
“I kind of knew in eighth grade,” said Baciuska. “I went to the school to visit for a clinic and fell in love then. I was being recruited by other schools and going on visits to other campuses but after each one, I kept telling myself and my parents, ‘I need to go back and see Wake [Forest] one more time.
“I love the size, the energy, and the coaching. I am super pumped to play there.”
Wake Forest, a university located in Winston-Salem, NC, is a strong program in the college field hockey world at the D-I level and a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Selfridge Signs Letter Of Intent To Play Volleyball At Clarion University
Published November 16
BAINBRIDGE – Abi Selfridge, a senior standout at Bainbridge-Guilford, plays both basketball and volleyball. As a junior, Selfridge was a member of the New York State Championship Volleyball team and scored her 1,000th point for her basketball career.
With quite the banner year as an 11th grader, she is starting off her senior season right where the last one left off.
In her final season as Bobcat Volleyball player, she recorded her 1,000th assist. On Thursday afternoon in a B-G conference room in front of family, teammates and friends, Selfridge signed her National Letter of Intent to play volleyball at Clairon University.
Clairon is a NCAA Division-II program in Clairon, PA and is located in the northwestern part of the state – a five and a half hour drive from Bainbridge. In the fall of 2019, Selfridge will become a part of the Golden Eagles program.
Currently, the Golden Eagles are playing in the D-II NCAA tournament and won their opening round game the same day Selfridge signed her letter.
Twice As Nice: Bobcats’ Volleyball Claims Second Straight NYSPHSAA Championship
Published November 19th
GLENS FALLS – Written on an index card were the words, “Defend our title.” Those words were put down on the card by Bainbridge-Guilford’s head coach Tami Selfridge prior to the start of the 2018 season as a goal for the Bobcats Volleyball team.
Sunday, needing one final point, the Bobcats’ Erica Selfridge delivered the serve over the net. After three hits set up a spike for Panama, B-G’s Marissa Cuozzo was there for the backline pass to Erica. The sophomore then made a set in the air for her sister, Abi Selfridge, who sent the kill attempt at the Panthers.
The Panthers’ Madalyn Bowen went up with two hands for the block. The ball deflected off her arms and landed out of bounds, giving the Bobcats a sweep over the Panama Panthers and their second straight New York State Class D Championship.
“It feels awesome,” said Selfridge (as she began to show emotion following the win.) “We all wanted it so badly. We just had to focus on just one point at a time. The girls came out and they played awesome. We played awesome last year at the state championship match and we did it again this year. I’m just super proud of them.”
The Bobcats saw Panama in the finals for the second year in a row. The two teams battled in a four set finals a year ago with B-G coming out on top 3-1. This year, Selfridge knew that it was going to be the same type of battle with them just in Saturday’s pool play action.
Abi Selfridge was named the New York State Class D Tournament Most Valuable Player while Erica and Caldwell were named as All-Tournament team members.
Coach Selfridge said the win was a true team effort by not only the girls that were on the court but the players cheering on the sideline. It was what she wanted from the very beginning of the season.
The Bobcats were welcomed back into Bainbridge with a parade of fire trucks. Last year’s state championship was recognized with signs on the way into town. The village will be adding another sign for the 2018 team.
Greene’s Sergi Inks National Letter Of Intent To UConn
Published November 20th
GREENE – Ever since she could walk, she had a field hockey stick in her hand. Now, after she concluded the end of her senior season as a Greene Trojan, McKenna Sergi signed the dotted line to continue her playing career as a Husky at the University of Connecticut (UConn) Monday afternoon.
In a packed library, Sergi was surrounded by family, friends, teachers and coaches – including the Trojans’ field hockey coach Christine Battaglini – as she officially committed to the NCAA Division-I program
Sergi said her love for the sport came at a young age from her mother, Morgan Sergi, and aunt Kate Harris (Sergi). “Both played when they were in school and they introduced me into the sport at a very early age,” said Sergi. “
The coaches from UConn first saw Sergi play at a camp two summers ago, a camp she was invited to join by her club coach’s step-daughter Amanda Collins. Collins, a Vestal graduate, is currently a senior on the Huskies roster.
After stepping onto the campus for the first time, Sergi fell in love and knew UConn is where she wanted to continue her field hockey career.
Trojans’ Moxley Signs With University Of Vermont Field Hockey; Greene Senior Becomes 19th In Program History
Published November 27
GREENE – The Greene Trojans Field Hockey program saw their second NCAA Division-I player sign a National Letter of Intent this season as Claire Moxley officially committed to the University of Vermont on Monday.
Moxley started playing the sport in kindergarten and hasn’t stopped since. In fourth grade, she knew she fell in love with the sport.
When Moxley got to the JV level, playing under the now varsity head coach Christine Battaglini, she knew the sport of field hockey was her passion. After getting that feeling for the first time, Moxley knew whenever she needed a moment to clear her head, she went to pick up her stick.
Early this season, Moxley suffered a broken hand. Thinking to herself that everything could disappear for her after the injury, the Trojans senior wasn’t going to let it end her playing career.
After two weeks of sitting on the sidelines during games, she returned to the field and looked as if she never lost a step.
Throughout the time she was unable to play in game due to the contact of the sport, Moxley was able to continue working during practice on her own. Stickwork, something that is always a focus in the sport of field hockey, was her go-to.
According to her parents, Joe and Joanne Moxley, it was one of the main elements Claire was always striving to get better at.
Claire Moxley knew she wanted to attend the college when she went to visit in eighth grade. Even after being told to keep looking at other schools and to keep her options open, she knew she wanted to become a Vermont Vcat.
Claire became the 19th Greene field hockey player to sign at Division-I program. Her teammate McKenna Sergi also signed a letter of intent this season, giving Battaglini her first two signees this season.
B-G’s Palmatier and Selfridge join 1,000 Point Club
Published December 28 and 29
BAINBRIDGE – Bainbridge-Guilford’s Megan Palmatier started the game against Tioga on Wednesday seven points shy of 1,000 points over her Bobcat career. Scoring six in the first half, Palmatier went into the intermission with the monkey on her back.
Nailing an free-throw early in the third, the crowd roared as she became the sixth player in Bainbridge-Guilford’s girls basketball history to hit the 1,000 point milestone.
The following night, she recorded the assist on the monumental point for her long-time teammate, Abi Selfridge.
Abi Selfridge started Thursday’s championship contest against the Deposit/Hancock Eagles six points shy of reaching her 1,000 point career. Following Kori Thornton’s opening bucket for the Lady Bobcats, Selfridge dropped in two baskets, leaving her just one away from the milestone.
While the ping-pongesque game between the two teams was going on, the local fans were all on edge, waiting for Selfridge to get the one score that stood in the way. The first quarter ended at 14-11, in favor of B-G and the fans still halted for a moment.
It was at the 6:49 mark in the second quarter when the stand erupted in a roaring cheer as the ball dropped from the net, coming from Selfridge’s hands for a basket she won’t forget.
Mr. 1K: Jackson Reaches 1,000 Career Points
Published February 16
NEW BERLIN – Andrew Jackson released his shot late in the second quarter and all fans waited silently as the ball soared through the air with all eyes in the gym following.
The moment the ball went through the basket, the crowd went crazy as Jackson scored his 1,000th point on a long three-pointer in the second quarter of their late game win over the Sidney Warriors on Thursday night.
Jackson and teammate Levi Rifanburg combined for 49 of the Storm’s 56 points to lead Unadilla Valley past the Warriors but not without some late game dramatics.
The first half of the game between the two teams was separated by a single point with the advantage leaning towards Sidney. The Warriors extended their lead to seven in the third with a 16-10 score in the quarter. At one point in the fourth, Unadilla Valley had trailed by as many as 10 points.
But collectively, Jackson and Rifanburg totaled 16 points to overcome the deficit. Also in the stanza, the Storm’s Caleb Parker knocked down a three-pointer, aiding in the fourth quarter comeback effort by the home team.
Jackson capped his landmark night with 26 points, eight rebounds and six assists.
Geislinger crowned New York State Champion; 6 county wrestlers stand on podium this weekend
Published February 26
ALBANY – Six of the nine Chenango County wrestlers placed at this weekend’s New York State Wrestling Championship. Norwich’s 99-pound Dante Geislinger came home a State Champion, the first for the school since 2015 when the Tristan Rifanburg and Frankie Garcia both brought home a title.
In front of a packed house at the Times Union Center in Albany, Geislinger came back from an early 2-0 deficit to top Section III’s Devin Coleman of Camden by a final of 9-4 for the decision win in the 99-pound Division II final Saturday night in the NYSPHSAA Wrestling Championships.
Geislinger reached the finals by taking down top-seeded Mason Bush of Central Valley. Geislinger avenged by taking a 6-2 decision win, pulling off the big upset.
With about 50 seconds left in the second period, Geislinger set up his shot that led to a takedown and then three back points for a 5-2 lead. Geislinger added another two back points as he put Coleman on his back again late in the second period.
Geislinger added another point with Coleman against deciding to go to neutral position. With a 9-2 lead in the third, Coleman took Geislinger down and tried to set up the comeback win. But the Norwich wrestlers lead was too much and ended with the 9-4 decision win, grabbing the state title. As the fifth-seed, Geislinger was the only Section IV winner and one of three in the finals.
Norwich’s seniors Ty Rifanburg finished sixth and Brennan Slater placed fourth in their respective weight classes while Tyler Rice and Mike Squires were the other two wrestlers that placed for the Tornado after earning spots two weeks ago by winning their weight class at the Section IV Championship two weeks ago.
Bainbridge-Guilford-Afton-Harpursville’s Ben Bivar, Shane Hoover, and Mike Wilmot all made it to the state tournament. Bivar and Hoover placed. Oxford’s Cooper Rice was also a participant, the first of his career
No. 1 Lady Bobcats Claw Through Tough Senecas For Section IV Title
Published March 5
CORTLAND – With 10.9 seconds remaining, the always large and electric fans of the Lady Bobcats roared to a standing ovation as they knew the Bainbridge-Guilford squad secured their first Section IV Championship since the ‘98-’99 season with a final over the Watkins Glen Senecas, 59-48.
In a situation that they have been in the last four years, the Bobcats entered the game knowing this year was going to be different as they were facing the defending Class C state champs.
Erica Selfridge stepped inside the paint for a jumper. She normally doesn’t enter the middle but Erica did. And she came up big. Selfridge hit the shot and got the foul called for the and-1 play. Making the free-throw, Erica Selfridge put the Bobcats back on top by four, a lead that wasn’t tested again.
“That was a big, big play,” Conway said. “She’s a freshman and she doesn’t like going into that paint too much. She doesn’t like the physicality. But I told her before the game if you get a chance to drive you’ve got to go in there. Today is the day you have to make yourself be a little bit more aggressive. So she did.”
55.6 seconds showed on the clock and Watkins Glen started to foul to stop the clock. Bainbridge-Guilford came up big at the foul line, finishing 9-for-12 down the stretch. Early in the contest, Palmatier struggled a little at the line. But when it matter, Palmatier came up big as she shot 6-for-8 in the last minute at the line.
“Once [Watkins Glen] started fouling and we started walking to the free throw line, I said this game is over,” Conway said.
Clock Doesn’t Strike Midnight On Cinderella Story Storm; UV Wins First Sectional Title In Program History
Published March 5
CORTLAND – Repeating their performance from Tuesday night, the Unadilla Valley Storm jumped out to an early first quarter lead. That lead was tested a few times throughout the contest but the Storm grinded out the win, crowning themselves the Section IV Class C champions for the first time the Unadilla Valley program history by taking down the four-seed Tioga, 58-48.
With 3:43 remaining, the game was tied after the Tigers’ Pierce Hendershot nailed his third consecutive three-pointer from the left corner. The next trip down the floor for Tioga, Hendershot was sitting in the corner ready to knock down his fourth. Out of nowhere, Grey sends the shot out of bounds, coming up with the huge block.
The Storm fans, on their feet, were nearly uncontrollable after Grey’s big defensive stop. After taking an accidental hand to the face, Dye was on the bench and Caleb Parker subbed in for him. Coming in ice cold, Parker received a pass from Jackson and finished strong at the rim.
On four straight possessions, UV’s Andrew Jackson tallied an assist and his teammates were knocking down the shots. Rifanburg under the rim, scored four straight points and Grey drilled home his third three of the game, putting the nail in the coffin as the Storm went up eight for good.
After a few free-throws, the final score was 58-48 and UV claimed the Section IV Class C title.
Jackson finished the game with a double-double, scoring 25 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. He also tallied seven assists.
Jackson averaged 25 points per game during the Section IV tournament, with one game scoring 40, a new school record.
Purple Tornado Win First Sectional Game In 15 Years
Published May 18
OWEGO – For the first time since 2003, the Norwich Purple Tornado baseball team ended a Section IV playoff game with a win after topping the Owego Indians 2-1 Thursday afternoon.
The scoreboard stayed 0-0 for the first the innings. In the top of the fourth, it finally changed.
As the lead-off batter for Norwich, J.T. Vinal faced a 1-2 count. Needing to make contact to avoid the first out of the inning, Vinal smashed a hard ground ball to Owego’s shortstop for a single.
Just one pitch later, the Purple Tornado’s Marcus Cashman sent a line drive to the right fielder. His hit sent Vinal home from first, scoring the first run of the inning and the first by either team for the game. Cashman landed a second for a double.
Mike Trevisani stepped up to the plate two batters later for the visiting team. Ready to drive in his teammate on second, Trevisani swung on the first pitch of the at-bat but missed for strike one. The next pitch he saw, he sent to center field.
Owego’s center fielder Dylan Simpson fielded the ball and relayed it to home plate. Cashman was sent home by Norwich Head Coach Rich Turnbull. The timing of both actions happening created a play at the plate.
As described by Turnbull, Cashman made a “beautiful” slide to avoid the tag put on by the Indians catcher and to score the second run for the Purple. Trevisani stopped at second base for his RBI double.
It turned out to be the game-winning offensive play for Norwich.
In the sixth inning, the Tornado’s Tanner Franklin made the game-saving defensive play to hold onto the lead.
Owego’s Luke Kiballa sent a shot into the gap of center field and right field. Getting a good jump on the ball, Franklin made a running catch to end the sixth inning. “If he doesn’t make that catch, Owego at least ties the game,” said Turnbull. The Indians had a runner on second.
“We have worked hard to get to this and it paid off...it’s not about one person it’s a total program effort and a lot of people were part of this win,” said Turnbull.
“I’m proud of the guys and would like to thank community for supporting us. We have received a lot of congratulations and we couldn’t have done it with everyone’s support”
Norwich Tournament Directors To Be Inducted Into Gus Macker Hall Of Fame
Published July 13
NORWICH – At the time, Jamey Mullen was the Program Director when he, Dave Sherman and a group of people met about ideas to bring some kind of new event to Norwich, – an event that would really put the city on the map.
Michelle Gleeson, now Morgan, mentioned that she knew friends from Michigan who run a national 3-on-3 basketball tournament. “Norwich was a town I knew the people from Gus Macker would love.”
Morgan was asked by Mullen to reach out to her friends, which she did.
Now, Gus Macker is currently playing the 23rd tournament on East Main Street in the City of Norwich. Mullen, who is now the executive director of the Norwich Family YMCA, will be joined by his directing partner Tom Revior will be inducted into the Gus Macker Hall of Fame in August.
The Gus Macker Basketball Hall of Fame has inducted a new class every five years during anniversary celebrations since the 25th anniversary of the touring three-on-three basketball tournaments company. Gus Macker, based in Belding, Michigan, celebrates 45 years this summer.
Together, Mullen and Revoir have led the YMCA’s Norwich efforts in hosting a Gus Macker tournament for the last 22 years.
When asking them what they had to say about the honor, the two inductees stated nearly the same.
“Definitely flattered,” said Mullen. “The fact that we have been doing it for so long and it’s been consistent can make it feel like an MLB player who hits 3,000 hits over a long career and you get recognized in the hall of fame for doing something like that.”
“When we travel to Michigan, we are definitely representing the whole community and the Norwich Macker for the 23 years it has been going. That’s everybody behind us and still for those to come and help volunteer.”
Revoir added, “As much as I am excited about the induction to the Hall of fame, I’m going to say pretty much the same thing that Jamey said.”
“I strongly believe that if it wasn’t for all of the volunteers and all of our sponsors, we wouldn’t be where we are today. I am honored and humbled but this is an honor for Norwich, not just for Jamey and I.”
Crimson Knights Claim First Section IV Title Since 2006; Afton Scores 11 In Shut Out Win
Published October 29
GREENE – Madison Baciuska and Casey East combined for six of their team’s 11 goals scored as the Afton Crimson Knights captured the Section IV Class B field hockey title Friday evening, the first for the program since 2006, when they won at the Class C level.
The Crimson Knights scored their first goal just 39 seconds into in the game as East dribbled into the box and rifled home a shot from close range. Following the first goal, Afton came away with an additional six in the half, ending the first 30 minutes of play with a 7-0 lead.
“One of the goals we set coming into this game was to score within the first five minutes,” said Crimson Knights’ head coach Josh Conover. “We wanted to make an impact immediately and to score in the first 39 seconds was pretty good.”
Baciuska, a Wake Forest commit, had four goals for the Crimson Knights. Her first came after dodging her way through the Owego defense to get close to the goal and putting the ball into the back of the cage with 16:40 remaining in the first, giving Afton a 4-0 lead.
“I haven’t processed the win quite yet but I think it’s great for the girls and the program,” said Conover.
A season ago, Afton reached the championship game against Whitney Point at the Class C level but lost to the now five-time Section IV Champion, 4-0.
Trojans Take Down heavily Favored Warriors In Class D Section IV Semifinals
Published October 29
JOHNSON CITY – The Greene Trojans pulled off the biggest upset of the season, beating the previously undefeated Sidney Warriors 24-23 in Saturday’s Class D, Section IV semifinal game held at Johnson City High School.
The boys of Greene didn’t the win as an upset through.
“I think it was an upset to most outside of our players,” said said Trojans’ head coach Dave Gorton. “We have lost a few close games in odd plays against them recently so we felt confident we would win. Our boys expected to win the game and I don’t think our players think it’s an upset. All the coaches are very proud of our players.”
The Trojans’ defense forced Sidney’s quarterback Ryan Harris to his second lowest yard and completion total of the season, allowing the QB to record 236 yards passing on 15 of 30 attempts. Greene picked off five of Harris’ passes, matching his interception total through the regular season.
Logan Kennedy grabbed two of the five takeaways for the Trojans, leading Greene in the column.
Sidney took the first quarter lead, scoring the only touchdown in the opening 12 minutes of play. By the end of the half, the Warriors’ tacked on another score while Greene added one touchdown of their own to show 14-6 on the scoreboard.
By the intermission, Harris tossed a touchdown pass to his receiver Peyton Mosher and the Warriors picked up a score on the ground from the standout running back David Gannon. Greene’s score came from quarterback Nate Erickson. Gannon ended the afternoon with 18 carries for 34 yards and the one first half touchdown.
In the second half, the Trojans’ closed in on Sidney. Greene’s Erickson found Tristan Austin down field for a touchdown in the third, bringing the 14-6 deficit down to two points with a quarter to play.
The first four minutes of the fourth turned into a shoot-out between the two teams as three touchdowns were exchanged in the time span.
To start the final 12 minutes, the Trojans’ started with the ball on the Warriors’ three yard line. 10 seconds later, Erickson punched the ball into the end zone to give Greene their first lead of the game at 18-14. A Harris-Trenton Budine connection ended the next drive in the end zone as Sidney marched down the field, needing a minute and half to take the 21-18 advantage.
The final touchdown of the scoring stretch ended with Greene as Erickson once again passed for the touchdown, hooking up with Noah Kennedy to regain the lead for good with eight minutes remaining in the contest.
Sidney tacked a safety in the last three minutes of play, scoring the last points of the game but it was not enough as the Trojans captured the win.
Official Business: Afton Field Hockey Standout Signs Letter To Play D-I
Published November 15
AFTON – She started playing the sport at the age of four. By eighth grade, she was traveling to one day clinics held at colleges up and down the east coast. She returned from her first New York State championship appearance on Sunday after reaching the semifinals.
On Wednesday – with many family, friends, teachers, and younger athletes who look up to her – Madison Baciuska of the Afton Crimson Knights Field Hockey program signed her national letter of intent to play at Wake Forest for the next four years
Baciuska, a member of the varsity team since seventh grade, knew she wanted to go to Wake Forest after attending a clinic with a friend in the eighth grade.
Many offers were on the table for the field hockey standout, most from the NCAA Division-I level. A recruiting trip to to one school and a visit to another, nothing made Baciuska feel more at home than Wake Forest.
“I kind of knew in eighth grade,” said Baciuska. “I went to the school to visit for a clinic and fell in love then. I was being recruited by other schools and going on visits to other campuses but after each one, I kept telling myself and my parents, ‘I need to go back and see Wake [Forest] one more time.
“I love the size, the energy, and the coaching. I am super pumped to play there.”
Wake Forest, a university located in Winston-Salem, NC, is a strong program in the college field hockey world at the D-I level and a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Selfridge Signs Letter Of Intent To Play Volleyball At Clarion University
Published November 16
BAINBRIDGE – Abi Selfridge, a senior standout at Bainbridge-Guilford, plays both basketball and volleyball. As a junior, Selfridge was a member of the New York State Championship Volleyball team and scored her 1,000th point for her basketball career.
With quite the banner year as an 11th grader, she is starting off her senior season right where the last one left off.
In her final season as Bobcat Volleyball player, she recorded her 1,000th assist. On Thursday afternoon in a B-G conference room in front of family, teammates and friends, Selfridge signed her National Letter of Intent to play volleyball at Clairon University.
Clairon is a NCAA Division-II program in Clairon, PA and is located in the northwestern part of the state – a five and a half hour drive from Bainbridge. In the fall of 2019, Selfridge will become a part of the Golden Eagles program.
Currently, the Golden Eagles are playing in the D-II NCAA tournament and won their opening round game the same day Selfridge signed her letter.
Twice As Nice: Bobcats’ Volleyball Claims Second Straight NYSPHSAA Championship
Published November 19th
GLENS FALLS – Written on an index card were the words, “Defend our title.” Those words were put down on the card by Bainbridge-Guilford’s head coach Tami Selfridge prior to the start of the 2018 season as a goal for the Bobcats Volleyball team.
Sunday, needing one final point, the Bobcats’ Erica Selfridge delivered the serve over the net. After three hits set up a spike for Panama, B-G’s Marissa Cuozzo was there for the backline pass to Erica. The sophomore then made a set in the air for her sister, Abi Selfridge, who sent the kill attempt at the Panthers.
The Panthers’ Madalyn Bowen went up with two hands for the block. The ball deflected off her arms and landed out of bounds, giving the Bobcats a sweep over the Panama Panthers and their second straight New York State Class D Championship.
“It feels awesome,” said Selfridge (as she began to show emotion following the win.) “We all wanted it so badly. We just had to focus on just one point at a time. The girls came out and they played awesome. We played awesome last year at the state championship match and we did it again this year. I’m just super proud of them.”
The Bobcats saw Panama in the finals for the second year in a row. The two teams battled in a four set finals a year ago with B-G coming out on top 3-1. This year, Selfridge knew that it was going to be the same type of battle with them just in Saturday’s pool play action.
Abi Selfridge was named the New York State Class D Tournament Most Valuable Player while Erica and Caldwell were named as All-Tournament team members.
Coach Selfridge said the win was a true team effort by not only the girls that were on the court but the players cheering on the sideline. It was what she wanted from the very beginning of the season.
The Bobcats were welcomed back into Bainbridge with a parade of fire trucks. Last year’s state championship was recognized with signs on the way into town. The village will be adding another sign for the 2018 team.
Greene’s Sergi Inks National Letter Of Intent To UConn
Published November 20th
GREENE – Ever since she could walk, she had a field hockey stick in her hand. Now, after she concluded the end of her senior season as a Greene Trojan, McKenna Sergi signed the dotted line to continue her playing career as a Husky at the University of Connecticut (UConn) Monday afternoon.
In a packed library, Sergi was surrounded by family, friends, teachers and coaches – including the Trojans’ field hockey coach Christine Battaglini – as she officially committed to the NCAA Division-I program
Sergi said her love for the sport came at a young age from her mother, Morgan Sergi, and aunt Kate Harris (Sergi). “Both played when they were in school and they introduced me into the sport at a very early age,” said Sergi. “
The coaches from UConn first saw Sergi play at a camp two summers ago, a camp she was invited to join by her club coach’s step-daughter Amanda Collins. Collins, a Vestal graduate, is currently a senior on the Huskies roster.
After stepping onto the campus for the first time, Sergi fell in love and knew UConn is where she wanted to continue her field hockey career.
Trojans’ Moxley Signs With University Of Vermont Field Hockey; Greene Senior Becomes 19th In Program History
Published November 27
GREENE – The Greene Trojans Field Hockey program saw their second NCAA Division-I player sign a National Letter of Intent this season as Claire Moxley officially committed to the University of Vermont on Monday.
Moxley started playing the sport in kindergarten and hasn’t stopped since. In fourth grade, she knew she fell in love with the sport.
When Moxley got to the JV level, playing under the now varsity head coach Christine Battaglini, she knew the sport of field hockey was her passion. After getting that feeling for the first time, Moxley knew whenever she needed a moment to clear her head, she went to pick up her stick.
Early this season, Moxley suffered a broken hand. Thinking to herself that everything could disappear for her after the injury, the Trojans senior wasn’t going to let it end her playing career.
After two weeks of sitting on the sidelines during games, she returned to the field and looked as if she never lost a step.
Throughout the time she was unable to play in game due to the contact of the sport, Moxley was able to continue working during practice on her own. Stickwork, something that is always a focus in the sport of field hockey, was her go-to.
According to her parents, Joe and Joanne Moxley, it was one of the main elements Claire was always striving to get better at.
Claire Moxley knew she wanted to attend the college when she went to visit in eighth grade. Even after being told to keep looking at other schools and to keep her options open, she knew she wanted to become a Vermont Vcat.
Claire became the 19th Greene field hockey player to sign at Division-I program. Her teammate McKenna Sergi also signed a letter of intent this season, giving Battaglini her first two signees this season.
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