Column: Behind the backboard

It happened during a Superior Bobcat boy’s basketball game. I was in my normal spot, which is always as close to behind the backboard as the referee’s allowed.

A wild pass sent the basketball flying towards me while I watched through the lens of my camera and I quickly moved my head down to avoid being hit.

There was a smile on my face while I tossed the ball to the referee and the action went to the other side of the court – it was a moment that summed up my newfound love for shooting basketball.

When you are down there, on the sidelines, just underneath the backboard – you almost feel like you are a part of the action. Like you are in the game.

It’s a rush. You can hear chatter between players.

Can hear the plays being given from the sidelines by coaches to the players and hear the referees telling players “good hustle” while they prepare for an in-bound pass.

Most importantly, what really got me hooked on shooting basketball, is you can feel the energy and the momentum of the game.

Yes, you can feel it on the bleachers but being down there is something else entirely.

For the last two seasons of Mineral County basketball I have witnessed many great moments. Witnessed the thrill of a last second victory, the heartache of a playoff loss, and the triumph of a group of student athlete’s playing as one team full of heart and passion.

Being able to watch, as an admitted fan of all the Mineral County schools, from such a unique angle has been special.

Go Mineral County and good luck to all of the spring student athletes.