Lights were a class act on Monday

Editor:

After returning home from our quick trip to Havre for the Frontier Conference championship in the Armory Monday night, I feel absolutely compelled to share some thoughts and insights about the Lights basketball program and the exceptional fan base the Hi-Line provides them.

From a former player's perspective and long-time junkie of the game, I can't help myself when needing to acknowledge the class and grace with which the Northern Lights men's basketball team presents themselves both on and off the floor.

Having played on several teams over my years and being pretty in tune with team dynamics (or lack thereof) I must express my sincerest appreciation for the degree to which this year's team (and last) embodies teamwork.

Never in my time have I experienced watching the game of basketball played with such reverence and commitment to the program and each other, and Monday night's game was a strong reflection of that. Shawn Huse and his staff must be congratulated for not only bringing in athletes who compete at the high level his team does, but the fine young men these individuals are off the court as well.

They are as tight knit of a group as I have ever witnessed play the game at any level. Harmony is the word that always pops into my head when I think of these guys and the way they play the game. And to all of you fans who made the game, as most of you consistently do, I have to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support you give our athletic programs up there. You are knowledgeable and passionate about the game of basketball, and it is reflected in the energy you bring to the gym every night. It has been almost 20 years since I last donned a Lights jersey (other than alumni) and feeling that energy again Monday night brought back a flood of memories as to why I am so thankful to be a part of the Northern Lights family.

These kids are special, which I am sure you don't need me to tell you, and I feel anyone who was at that game Monday night will never forget the scene for as long as they live ... especially the young men who chose to come to school at Northern.

You fans do a fantastic job of supporting these young student athletes, and I thank every one of you personally who have taken the time to support them or make a difference in their lives in some capacity.

Hopefully 20 years from now, one or more of these brilliant young men will be afford the accountability to do as I have here. Because, I sure as heckfire don't see Hi-Line fans ever subsiding your passion for the game and your very own Northern Lights.

God bless and go Lights.

Shawn Wetzel

Billings