PHOTO CREDIT: GARY LEININGER

BOARDMAN’S SEASON ENDS AT DISTRICTS

PERRY, OH- In a hard-fought battle at Perry High School, the Boardman Spartans girls basketball team concluded their season in the District Semi-Final, falling short against Rocky River with a final score of 51-42. Despite facing an uphill battle throughout the game, the Spartans showcased resilience and determination, leaving everything on the court until the final buzzer.

The first half proved to be a tough challenge for the Spartans, as they struggled to find their rhythm and trailed by 23 points heading into halftime. However, halftime served as a rallying point for the team, igniting a fiery determination to fight back and give it their all in the second half.

With unwavering heart and tenacity, the Spartans mounted an impressive comeback, cutting Rocky River’s lead to just 7 points with under four minutes remaining in the game. Despite their valiant efforts, they couldn’t close the gap further, ultimately falling short by a 9-point margin.

Leading the charge for the Spartans was Mackenzie Riccitelli, who delivered a stellar performance with 20 points and 4 steals. M.C. Werth showcased her sharpshooting skills, contributing 9 points, including three crucial 3-pointers. Sarah Bero made her presence felt on both ends of the court, tallying 6 points and grabbing 8 rebounds.

Sam Duble, Ava Freeborough, and Tori Strines also made important contributions to the team’s effort, while Mikayla Rivera provided valuable minutes off the bench. As the final buzzer sounded, seniors Sam Duble, Mackenzie Riccitelli, and M.C. Werth bid farewell to the court, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and leadership.

Despite the outcome, the Spartans achieved remarkable success throughout the season, boasting a 19-win record, securing an outright AAC Championship, and making a memorable run in the District Tournament. Their contributions to the program will be cherished and remembered for years to come, serving as an inspiration to future generations of Spartans.