The Roncalli student section led a gym full of supporters one last time Saturday evening with a cheer, as they celebrate a 55-45 win over Milwaukee Academy of Science at the State Basketball Tournament.
This is the second state championship for the Jets program in five years, both of which were led by Coach Joe Garceau.
Leading up to the tournament, Garceau spoke about how this team has been the epitome of the word, namely in their selflessness.
“To cap it off with a state title with this crew is incredibly special,” he said. “They might not have been the most talented individuals, but they fought for each other every day in practice, every game, and again I am just proud of what they accomplished.”
The Jets’ season appeared to be coming to a premature end as they were down by 10 points to Marshal late in the semifinal matchup.
Garceau said that win, capped by a 14-0 run, was all about the players.
“I hate to admit it, but I was getting a little worried there,” the coach revealed. “To the player’s credit, they never lost faith. That win belongs squarely on their shoulders, as I think every one does.”
The heart and soul of this team has been without a doubt Senior Luke Pautz.
He had nothing but high praise for Milwaukee Academy of Science.
“Coming into the game we knew that they were some freak athletes,” he said. “But our defense stepped it up tonight. We clogged the paint a little bit so they couldn’t shoot as much.”
Luke and the rest of the team were swarmed by young children, who saw the champs as celebrities.
Each one had a marker and a basketball and were asking for autographs and pictures.
Pautz said being treated like that is amazing, but it just goes to show how much support the community has given them all year long.
“Driving across the state two and a half hours to watch us play a two-hour game means a lot,” he said. “I hope I am a role model and set a good example for them.”
We asked Luke what was next for him. He said that UW Oshkosh is high on his list, but he is still undecided. He is also considering entering a two-year program.
