Marissa's XC Banquet brought BIG news

The Banquet was held on December 4, 2012 at the New River Community Church in Prospect, KY.  It is the same place Robert's Cross Country Banquet was held.  We decorated the place in black teal with balloons, streamers and banners.  

Marissa and all the runners sat up front at the round tables while the parents and guest sat back at the long tables.  All the girls dressed up and looked so nice for the occasion.  It was a sad night as they knew that Coaches Phillips were retiring - this was their last season.  Marissa got very attached to the coaches this season (due to her broken leg).  

As the banquet went on to recognition, the coaches divided the girls - first the freshman.  Erin Edmondson was named Rookie of the Year.  We were sure she would be named MVP.  Then the sophomores.  Coach Greg Phillips had Marissa and he made the most amazing and touching speech about her and her family.  She was the only runner where the coaches talked about a wonderful family - giving love and support.  It was truly an honor to be recognized in this way.  She was named MVP!  This wasn't a shock in her ability or in her performance over the season, but we thought it would go to Erin or a senior.  Last year Marissa was the top runner, but was named Rookie of the Year, so it was a tearful moment for me when she was finally recognized for her contribution to the team.  It was very touching!  Marissa loves running with this team of girls!  They are core to the bone!

Marissa with her award

Marissa:  2012 Girls Cross Country MVP!

It was very sad that Mark couldn't be at the banquet to hear the great news.  He was on assignment in Ireland for work.  Betsy texted him the news immediately - even with the 5 hour time difference.  He wanted to know as soon as he woke up.

Jessica's last Basketball Banquet

3/23/11 - Tonight is the NOHS Girls Basketball Season Banquet.

Jessica and Coach Pfaff

What a great night - the air is filled with excitement and anticipation of a wonderful dinner and program.

Jessica and Coach Nancy Martin

The banquet was held at the North Oldham High School Media Center to save money for the program.  Betsy worked very hard to decorate and make sure the room was festive for the girls and their families.  Dinner was a mexican spread from Qdoba's - the girls absolute favorite choice.  They got quesadillas (as per requested) and the rest of us had the open taco bar (yum).  After dinner, Nancy Martin started the evening with a bunch of thank you to everyone that helped with the program.  She also spoke about the season and about the Varsity program and each of the girls.  Then Coach Pfaff spoke about the Junior Varsity program.  Jessica never played on JV with Coach Pfaff but he also ran the practices with Coach Grimm, and she has him as her Business Math teacher.  She has developed a great relationship with him and a mutual respect and appreciation for each other.

Coach Martin did an excellent job talking about the season and each of the Varsity players.  Jessica will be hard to replace.  Coach Grimm followed up with the awards and recognitions.  Lucy Gibson was awarded the all-time assist record - 150 club.  Nicole Bryant (during the Bethlehem game) was awarded the 1000 point club award, and Jessica Lowe was awarded the 500 rebound club.  For the best of the season, Lucy Gibson was named as the Best Defensive Player, Nicole Bryant was recognized as the Best Offensive player and Jessica was presented the  MOST VALUABLE PLAYER of the season award.  Grimm said there was no doubt who the award went to this year from a statistical point.  She was #1 in rebounds, #2 in points, #1 in steals, #2 in assists, #1 in charges taken and defensive assists, and #2 in blocked shots.  She had such an OVERALL and all around game, but it wasn't her statistical data that made it so obvious that she was MVP.  It was her presence on the court - her command of the paint and her confidence and example to others that most impressed the coaches.  Coach Martin said she could not remember as day, in 5 years that Jessica Lowe ever complained or griped about a drill, practice or run.  She was so tender and kind in her comments about Jessica.

Jessica and Coach Craig Grimm

Jessica already misses her time with her basketball friends.  I think this group of girls will be together and stay together as friends forever!

Mikayla Roach, Meghan Welle, Jessica Lowe, Coach Pfaff, Lucy Gibson, and Nicole Bryant

Jessica and her friend and teammate Nicole Bryant - both All District Players

Watching Jessica progress and play basketball for five years has been one of the greatest joys in our lives.  We've loved it, pushed through the hard times, laughed at the good times, and cheered the great times.  I can't believe it's come to an end.  What a joy to be a part of it!