Crusader Varsity Men’s Season Ends with a Valiant Effort

          February 21, 2012 - On Tuesday, February 14, SFCS played their final home game of the season and celebrated Senior Recognition Night. Shannon was hoping to avenge an earlier season loss to the Trailblazers back in November. Both teams struggle offensively with the Crusaders trailing 8-6 at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, both teams found an offensive rhythm scoring double figures. The second half came down to the game within the game better known as the free throw line. Asheville shot 14 for 16 while Shannon shot a dismal 7 for 17. The poor free throw shooting ended any hope of the seniors winning their final home game and they fell by a final score of 55-46. Boe Seppala led the team with 10 points and 5 assists, Eero Niemela added 9 points, Kendall Stephens chipped in with 7 and Neil Conover added 6 points. 
          On Thursday, February 16, the Crusaders headed north to battle Carolina Day School (CDS) in the first round of the CAA tournament. Shannon was hoping to wear the glass slipper and pull off a Cinderella upset. In the first half, it appeared the slipper might just fit as the 2-3 matchup zone was able to tame the Wildcats offense holding them to 17 first half points. With the game tied at the half, Shannon led by as many as three in the third quarter before a late CDS run put the Crusaders down 8 heading into the fourth. In the final frame, Shannon battled to the end, but the clock stuck midnight on the Crusader season with a final score of 52-38. Senior Chris Horton led the team with 12 points and 8 rebounds, Stephens added 7 points while Parker Johnson and Seppala chipped in with 6 each. Congratulations to the four seniors Chris Horton, Kendall Stephens, Parker Johnson, and Micah Weaver for their dedication and commitment this season.