"I will do whatever it takes to win games, whether it is sitting on the bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a team mate, or hitting the game winning shot." - Kobe Bryant

Against all odds - the Cheverus Cardinals Seventh & Eighth Grade Boys ended their regular season number one and for the first time in the history of Cheverus School became the Middlesex Catholic Basketball League Champions…and here is where the story continues.

It is the positive, inspirational stories that come out of this team’s journey that continue to lift up the soul. Will it be a heartbreaking defeat or a jubilant triumph on March 17 for this team?

For some of us, it will not matter because of one unselfish act of a true team player and warrior, which will be what stays in our memories for years to come.  For without that seventh grade player’s generosity of spirit– this little team that couldn’t, continues its journey one more day.  The Cheverus seventh and eighth grade boys have advanced to the State finals.

Coach Charlie posted this comment on the teams webpage “ While our guys played a warrior like game, battered, bruised and bleeding (literally) the true MVP of the day was without a doubt, Nick Powers. 

When it became apparent that one of the starters left part of his uniform at home, Nick immediately volunteered his uniform so he could participate. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the primary reason that Cheverus is appearing in the state final (that player went on to score 26 points) is due to this true act of team spirit, loyalty and sportsmanship. Having been a coach at Cheverus for the past 20 years, I have many fond memories and proud moments.  I have no doubt that this moment will be my most memorable and proudest. Thanks Nick!”

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Coach Charlie is an interesting coach. His view of basketball is more about the life lessons these boys face each and every practice and game; on or off the court.  Do not get me wrong, winning is important to him as it is with the other coaches which is why during the parent meeting at the beginning of every season, he stresses that point so that everyone is clear, but he also stresses that winning in life is even more important.  How we conduct ourselves as players, parents and coaches is, ultimately, how we will be defined at the end of the day.

This season has had its highs and lows. Faced with controversial moments and questionable events it would be easy and justifiable to many to retaliate negatively. For the coaches having chosen to take the high road during each conflict that reared its ugly head has made all the difference in this parent’s eye. It allowed my son the ability to watch, not only the drama unfold, but how it worked out in the end to be one of the greatest life lessons.  No greater positive impact could happen to him then watching and witnessing when validation came, through Nick Powers’ unselfish act. 

In speaking with Nick’s father about the event later, we learned of the conversation he had with his son on the ride home when the dad asked him why?  Nicks response - “I can play next year Dad, but this year, I am still part of the team, whether I play or not, and we have a real chance to see something great.”  Coach Charlie is right, winning in life is so much more important and valuable and my response to Nick Powers – you are wrong my young friend – we have already seen the something great – You!

The Cheverus Cardinals have advanced to the EMass Championship final game which will be held Sunday, March 17, at Cathedral High School in Boston at 4:30 pm.  They will face Trinity Academy of Brockton.