The Eagles and Lady Eagles team took us on a wonderful ride for the 2015-2016 season. It was a season of euphoria with just a couple of bumps in the road.

Both teams won 21 games during the season. That is an amazing feat for one team. Yet, Hugoton basketball fans were able to watch two teams win night after night at home and on the road. Basketball was king and made the winter seem not so cold at all.

The teams made the long trip to Goodland and came away with two Sub-State titles. This was not an easy feat as the boys had to defeat Holcomb for their third victory over them this year. The girls traveled to Goodland Thursday and then returned to Hugoton the same night. Then, the Lady Eagles had a return bus trip to Goodland to go for the title. Both teams completed their mission and garnered more trophies for Hugoton.

Then, it was on to State. The teams’ accomplishments filled the town with smiling faces, and Eagle supporters made quick plans to go to Emporia. Students in school had to concentrate more on their studies as the thought of two of Hugoton’s teams heading to the State tournament was constantly in their conversations.

Finally, the buses were loaded and were escorted out of town in front of throngs of Lady Eagles and Eagles fans. The games began in Emporia Wednesday and both teams had a fantastic week.

They showed the entire state Hugoton is a mecca for superb basketball players. Also, they showed that teams can win and display good sportsmanship. Both teams are led by two coaches and mentors in C.J. Korf and Andy Gillen. They lead their teams and show them how to not only play the game, but more importantly, how to respect the game.

Yes, a first place trophy would have been nice. However, the teams earned the experience of competing with the top teams from around the state. The Lady Eagles finished third, while the Eagles had a second place finish.

This was an amazing season for all.