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PCHS alumni gather for basketball game

By Staff | Jul 8, 2009

OLD SCHOOL BASKETBALL — One of the events during Paden City’s alumni weekend was a basketball game Friday night in Bob Burton Gymnasium. Here, Ronnie Blatt makes a move along the baseline to drive to the hoop.

A charity basketball game was one of the main attractions during Paden City’s alumni festivities as they put together a team to play the New Martinsville Bucks on Friday.

The Wildcats’ alumni team appeared in good form as they defeated the Bucks 93-51. Mark Jackson, Paden City Class of ’91, led the game in scoring with 34 points in pacing the alumni win.

Joining Jackson on the alumni team were John Cosper (1984), Michael King (2000), Doug Snider (1991), Barry Suter (1987), Mike Harlan (1988), Brian Casto (2004), Ronnie Blatt (2009), Ricky Wright (2009), and Ed Parsons (1969).

The New Martinsville Bucks teams was comprised of many PCHS graduates as well, including Steve Kastigar (1982), Miranda Billiter (2003), Ronnie Henry (1997), Dave Byers (1974), and Jeremy Byers (1998). Magnolia alumni Anthony Wells and Brian Hostetler also participated, along with John Marshall grad John “Butch” Lantz.

The team was coached by Rick Estep (PCHS 1991). Officiating the game was Bob Dalrymple. Organizing the PCHS team were Rick Bertozzi and Jeff Bowers. Assisting with the logistics of the game were PCHS Athletic Director Fred King, Mike and Jana Turner, Oliver Tackett and Rodney McWilliams. The three-point shoot-out held prior to the game was won by Mike King.

Those in attendance found the game very entertaining.

“I really enjoyed the game,” said Kathy Loub, Class of 1982. “It was fun to see the alumni out there playing again and still being very competitive and having fun at the same time. I am glad the game was held and it benefits a good cause also.”

The proceeds of the game benefited the Cornerstone Project. The committee, sponsored by the Paden City Foundation, is working to secure a long-term future for public schools in Paden City.

“The folks from the New Martinsville Police and Fire departments contacted us about getting the game together,” said McWilliams. “It was their idea to have it and use the proceeds for the Cornerstone. We are thrilled they offered this. We are grateful to the guys on the PCHS team who quickly organized for the event and put on a great game.

“We also want to thank Rick Estep and all the players from the Bucks team for making this generous offer. It really shows that support for our school and our mission extends beyond the borders of Paden City.

“It is coming in from all parts of Wetzel and Tyler counties, as well as all over West Virginia and other parts of the country. We are seeing all forms of support coming our way from people near and far.”

Tentative plans call for some type of annual event such as an Alumni basketball tournament.

For information about the game or suggestions for future events, contact McWilliams or Paden City Alumni President Mark Glover.

Inquiries about the Cornerstone Project can be directed to McWilliams at 304-482-9684 or Mike Turner at 304-337-2326. Contributions can be mailed to Paden City Foundation, Inc. P.O. Box 233, Paden City, WV 26159 Ref: Cornerstone Project.