There has been a noticeable increase in school spirit this year. From the outstanding pep rally, to the enthusiastic participation on spirit days, the 2013-2014 school year has truly been spirit-filled. The girls’ and boys’ basketball program are an important part of this year’s excitement.
Despite struggling the past few seasons, this year’s Towson basketball teams have been considerably more competitive and successful than in years past. Corey Branch, a junior on the girls’ team says, “Compared to my freshman and sophomore years, we’re doing great, but there’s always room for improvement, but we are definitely getting there.” The attendance and energy at games has risen, and more students are excited about the basketball season. Junior Naz Donowa says, “I haven’t been to games before this year, but now I’ve gone to a few. They’re really exciting.”
This year’s season has been highlighted by several special games and occasions. One event that drew out much of the school was the faculty basketball game. The game pitted the English and Social Studies departments against the Math and Science departments, and the students were not disappointed with the fun and entertaining event that allowed students to see their teachers in other roles outside of the classroom.
Another special night for Towson basketball was the boy’s game against Hereford. On the night of the game, the 1963 Towson state championship team was honored. According to Athletic Director Jeff Walen, “Paying tribute to our rich and proud history is a great way to promote pride and facilitate school spirit. The Hall of Fame, the banners, the showcases–all of these are a tribute to our successful athletic legacy.” The boys defeated the rival Bulls in their best win of the season, with a score of 72 to 57. After the game, members of the championship team met with the Hereford and Towson teams, giving them words of advice and inspiration for the rest of the season.
Other exciting days for Towson’s basketball squads were the teams’ spirit nights. Students wearing Towson spirit gear were admitted to the games for only $1, which created a lot of energy and excitement among the fans. Despite a close loss by the boys’ team, the girls defeated Lansdowne in a game that Mr. Walen considers the most exciting girls’ basketball game that he’s ever seen. “Our girls’ varsity defeated Lansdowne that night 33-31 in a game where there were almost as many lead changes as baskets made,” stated Walen.
On December 18th, the basketball teams took on Dulaney in a Rivalry Cup game at Goucher College. Many fans turned out to cheer on the Generals, and despite losses by the girls and boys, it was still a spirit-filled night. “Playing against Dulaney at Goucher will probably be one of the most memorable experiences of my life,” explains Kevin Spencer, a junior forward on the Generals, “even though we lost, it was still one of those experiences that you want to tell your grandchildren about.”
The entire school year has been filled with level of spirit that has never been seen here at Towson. Despite tough losses in the playoffs by the boys’ and girls’ teams, this season has set a precedent for new levels of competitiveness and school spirit in Towson athletics. Let’s continue to show our support and root for our Generals!