The Paton-Churdan student body, along with parents and other members of the community, gathered this morning to celebrate the Rockets’ successful basketball season.
The boys’ season ended Thursday in the District 13 final game. The winner, Nodaway Valley, They finished the season with a 20-4 record. Senior Dylan Burgart reminded his teammates they had come from being an 0-20 team early in their high school careers.
“I know we didn’t win last night, but to me we were already winners,” principal Annie Smith said. “You are true role models and we didn’t need a state championship trophy to prove that. The sense of pride I have for each and everyone of you fills my heart and everyone here today.”
A highlight of the community rally was honoring junior Noah Juergensen as a new member of the 1,000 Point Club. Juergensen hit the 1,000 mark on his second basket of the game. He scored 15 points total. Smith said Juergensen has set himself apart “as a powerhouse on the floor.” She said his “humble way” has also set him apart. “I can’t remember another player that can change the course of a game with a single dunk, a dunk that seems so easy and effortless. But what I love most is that I know you don’t do it to show off. You do it four our fans, for the future basketball players that idolize you, and for your team,” Smith said. He is pictured with his mother Jill Juergensen.
Juergensen also led the Rolling Valley conference in blocked shots at 49 for the season. According to Rocket fan Teena Toliver, “Noah is beautiful to watch. He goes up in the air like a fish to block shots and several times has had us all standing as he dunks the ball from above the basket.”
Juergensen is the third player named to the 1,000 Point Club. Senior Jake Carey (right) and junior Carleigh Paup (center) were honored earlier in the season.
The Rocket girls team also finished the season with a winning record at 14-8. The girls lost their first post season game 51-46 to CAM Feb. 13. CAM lost its next game to Glidden-Ralston 54-35. G-R did not advance to the state tournament.
