The 1998-99 CYO Travel Program recently concluded at the end of March. In retrospect, the "Little Parish That Could" established themselves as a true force in CYO basketball throughout Long Island.

There was a lot of basketball played during the past six months, including all teams making the playoffs, hosting a holiday tournament for 14 teams during the Christmas school break, having John Starks come in and visit the kids, stressing education as the best vehicle to succeed in life, also giving them some pointers on the aspects of the 'game.'

One of the philosophies that our program attempts to convey to the kids is that "winning" the contest is not as important as trying your best. If you go out, stay focused, try your best, no disparagement toward you teammates, officials or the other team, guess what, you walk off the court as a "winner."

Listed below are some highlights of the season:

The sixth-graders won their division during the regular season in CYO. They finished second in the Super League. Also, they were awarded the CYO "Sportsmanship" medal. This recognition is the highest honor to receive in CYO.

The seventh-graders participated in the "most competitive" division in CYO. They went up against the best talent that the 12-year-old division had to offer. They more than held their own and what they lacked in size, they more than compensated for in hustle and desire. In addition, three of the players from the seventh grade auditioned for the Long Island Lightning AAU Spring Travel Team and were selected to participate in that program.

The eighth-graders participated in the most competitive division in their age group. There were early season injuries to some key players that presented significant challenges to the team throughout the season. There were some closely contested games that could have gone either way.

A big thank you to Dan Brunette, Tony Luisi, James Murray and Jason Smeal for the tireless dedication they gave during the last six months in coaching the CYO travel teams. Also, to all the parents who "carpooled" the kids all over the Island to get to West Hempstead and various parishes in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Well, the CYO season is a wrap. Please stay tuned. St. Gertrude's will be putting together a summer basketball program starting in late June concluding on Aug. 15 Please contact Peter Miller at 628- 9046 for further details regarding the summer league.