Lynx men fall to Victor Pirates in season ender

In a varsity vs. junior varsity match-up, the younger, less-experienced players have to climb a steep mountain. But the hometown Lynx men don't even have a full component of high school players. Two of their most talented shooters, Kayden Riddle and Roegun Dietz, are only in eighth grade!

The Victor Pirates, starting seniors and juniors who average 5-foot, 10-inches and 150 pounds, made intimidating opponents Feb. 12. A fan did not need to be a fortune teller to see the outcome was almost a sure thing for the Pirates.

Down nine points at the half, the Lincoln Lynx men played with a fierce intensity that belied their formidable situation. Senior leader Justin Fry pulled down every rebound within reach and added nine points to the score. Eighth grader, Roegun Di-etz, who needs another fifty pounds to hold his own against the big, strong high schoolers who are five years older, played his heart out with fearless courage and his fellow eighth grader, Kayden Riddle added two free throws to the books.

The final score, 22 - 42, was a win for Victor, but a proud moment for the Lynx who stood up to the giant and didn't flinch.

Freshman shooter Andrew Brown, who was double-teamed most of the game, managed to slip in seven points; Freshman Teegan Riddle whose quick and physical play take your breath away, put up one three-pointer; and Trever Tolan, a sophomore who dominates the key, added one point. The Dempster brothers and Logan Joyce contributed tough defense and forced many turnovers.

Sports teach students many things, among them is "facing adversity with courage." Sometimes life is not an evenly matched contest. OK. The Lynx get it.

This young squad, with nine underclassmen, can look forward to a winning season in one or two years. Until then, pass the protein drinks and the double burgers.