The third time around in the section 5AA finals proved to be the charm for the Holy Family girls basketball team as they defeated Annandale by a score of 47-32 to advance to the class 2A state tournament.  There, the second-seeded Fire suffered a heartbreaking 60-49 loss to Albany.  Following their loss, head coach Adrian Turner told local sports reporter Eric Kraushar the following: “I let them know we’re still champions.  We earned our way to play for this championship.  They beat us tonight, and that happens.  We are still who we are.  We’re section champs.  We’re conference champs.  These girls have a lot to be proud of.”

The Fire would go on to win in overtime against St. Peter by a score of 64-59 to advance to the consolation championship, where they would face Proctor.  The Fire ultimately defeated Proctor by a score of 47-33.  Following their victory Turner said on Twitter, “Fire finish the season with another team win!  The love for each other was truly on display.  When facing adversity with a player going down, the girls got stronger and took over the game!  Can’t find a tighter group in the state! #oneteam #onedream #onegoal #onewin #GoFire”

The Fire finished the year 25-6, which is the best record in program history.  One word that best sums up the Fire’s season is champions.  The Fire were not only conference champions, but also section champions and consolation champions at the state tournament.  Without a doubt, the Fire had a remarkable season and has an exciting future ahead.

The Fire will look to build on this historic season next year in hopes of returning to state.  Keep your eye out for the Fire as November rolls around this coming year.  As for now, celebrate the Fire’s success.