A dominant regular season and convincing playoff wins over Catholic Central, Essex, and Brennan led up to an opportunity for the Erie Migration Junior Girls to take a SWOSSAA 2A basketball title in Kingsville against the Lancers of Petrolia’s Lambton Central Collegiate and Vocational Institute.
The championship game, held on November 13 in front of a supportive crowd at The Den, was a tightly contested affair from the get-go as stifling defensive play from both sides saw the first half end in a 15 to 12 score for the visitors.
The second half featured some more press defence creating multiple turnovers, while key makes at the free throw line by the Lancers extended their lead to 27-18 at the end of the third quarter.
Layups by Charlotte Wright and Mackenna Michalski brought the Coyotes back to a two score deficit late in the fourth quarter, but some three pointers in the waning minutes sealed the deal for Lambton Central Collegiate as they pulled away for a 40-28 victory and a SWOSSAA title.
Erie Migration coach Steve Johnson was asked about his thoughts after the game. “It was a hard fought game. The other team was better today. Our girls made some adjustments, but it was just a little too late. We’re very proud of our girls and the other team made a great showing against us.”
Erie Migration’s other coach, Tony Nurse, was asked to reflect on the successful season that their junior girls had as regular season champions and as WECSSAA champs. “We had a really fantastic season and the team really came together. Every practice, every game, the girls played their hearts out. The WECSSAA title game really showed everything that they are capable of and we are just so proud.”
Pictured just after capturing the WECSSAA championship over Brennan at St. Clair College are Coaches Tony Nurse and Steve Johnson, along with the Erie Migration Junior Girls basketball crew.
Photo courtesy of Tony Nurse
