Saint John Vianney Men’s Basketball Championship – Catholic Studies Blog
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Saint John Vianney Men’s Basketball Championship

This past Saturday, April 9th, was the event of the season. The SJV men from the Grand Avenue Apartments battled the Catholic Men’s Floor of Ireland for the first time in St. Thomas history. Coming in as a late addition to the bracket, the Men’s floor was seeded high and ready to compete, their strengths lying in their energy and enthusiasm. The men from Grand were also set as their playing style emphasized experience and seniority. Free popcorn, entertaining announcers, and a guest appearance from our very own Archbishop Nienstedt were among the highlights of the evening. Both teams proved to have a sizable turnout in terms of their fan sections, though the seminary might have had a “home-field advantage” due to their large number of organized cheers.

Though the Men’s Floor came well prepared, a crucial member of their team was injured before the game began. Benjamin “Cash-Money” Dellaria, leader of the floor, suffered a serious ankle sprain during the warm-ups and was unable to play a minute of the game. Chris Miller – Senior starter for SJV – later commented, “Honestly, if Ben would have played, the game would have been much different.” Maybe I am a biased reporter, but it was nothing short of tragic.

With two 21-minute halves, every second was packed with high-flying action. Scott Valentyne proved to be one of SJV’s predominant three-point shooters and challenged Catholic Men’s John Hellkamp to respond with his own impressive offense. Both teams played their hearts out and kept the crowd on the edge of their seats for the entire 42 minutes. In the end, SJV took home the gold as they finished with a seven-point lead at 31-24. Though there was only one award given – a well-deserved MVP to Chris Miller – I would argue others should have been presented…

 Vincent Wagner, Senior for SJV not only takes home the award for best defense but also best hair. How does it stay so flawless? No one knows.

 Andrew Marschner, Sophomore for Catholic Men’s receives best team player award (that kid NEVER runs out of encouragement for his team).

 Adam Isakson, Senior for SJV earned most intimidating player, without a doubt. Anybody else see those eyes? Intense.

 Vincent Floeder, Sophomore for Catholic Men’s receives the most heart award. Anyone who was watching can vouch for this one, that guy has got love for the game and love for his team.

 Jack Haben, Senior for SJV without a doubt earns the hardest worker award. If you saw him after the game, you would agree, that guy can sweat!

 The list of awards could go on and on. Bottom line: these guys played their hearts out and left the fans entertained, proud, and full of buttery popcorn.


Click on the images to enlarge them.  Photos courtesy of Jenna, Sophomore Catholic Studies student

Written by:  Molly, amateur sports reporter and Catholic Studies and Psychology double-major

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