This article was written by student writer Cameron Belisle, Grade 12 student at Char-Lan District High School and first published in the Glengarry News.
November 9, 2022 (Williamstown, ON) - School spirit brings people together and gives the feeling of being part of something far bigger than oneself. Sadly, this feeling of unity and belonging was lacking for many due to COVID. This all changed last week when Char-Lan DHS hosted the SD&G Girls Basketball Championship, making the first such gathering since 2019 a truly memorable one.
On Wednesday, Nov. 2, the Crusaders’ senior girls basketball team faced off against the Glengarry Gaels. Both teams played a very defensive game, not giving up many baskets on either end of the court. In front of an enthusiastic home crowd, Char-Lan defeated GDHS 34-22. The girls’ senior team, under the experienced coaching of Jim Fourney and Bob Blackadder, will head to EOSSA in Brockville next week.
The following day, Char-Lan's junior girls' team played against Tagwi. The home crowd was sitting on the edge of their seats, with equal amounts of excitement and tension filling the gym. At half-time, Char-Lan led by a small margin. Spectators cheered wildly, flooded with equal feelings of excitement and nervousness. With 5.5 seconds left in the game, the score was tied at 37. This all changed in the final second: Ella Fontaine of Tagwi took the winning shot - giving her team the win right at the buzzer.
Both games marked an important return to true competition and sportsmanship. “The gym was packed both days to cheer on our junior and senior girls. It was nice to see Char-Lan spirit in full force after a two year break from school sports,” said teacher Kelsey MacDonald.
In the coming week, keep an eye out for Char-Lan and Tagwi as they compete in EOSSA.