The Valparaiso High School gymnasium was buzzing with excited fans before the start of the boys’ varsity basketball game. This past Friday, the Valparaiso Vikings hosted South Bend Clay and honored their graduating seniors Brandon Nicholas, Cole Wolf, Max Jindra, and Drew Paul. Valparaiso was looking for another win following the defeat of the South Bend Clay Junior Varsity Team.
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Immediately following the Junior Varsity game, graduating cheerleaders were recognized and walked to the middle of the court with their parents. The four graduating seniors of the boys’ basketball team were also recognized by their peers and family. The crowd cheered as each name was read and families had a sentimental moment recognizing the achievements of their students.
Angie Palm, mother of senior Drew Palm, said, “It’s always emotional for senior night. This is my last one so it is extra emotional.”
The game started with Valparaiso quickly taking the lead and a buzzer beater at the end of first quarter left the Vikings with 15 points and the board and South Bend Clay with 6. South Bend looked as though it might start to catch up with Valparaiso but at half-time the teams were still nine points apart, 29 -20.
The half-time show featured a joint performance by the Lady Viking cheerleaders and the Vikette team. Their performance also featured Victor the Viking, who, upon graduation, hopes to become the Cardinal at Ball State. Fans then looked on as a burrito-eating contest took place towards the end of half-time. Students were challenged to eat a burrito in under five minutes. Only one succeeded and the others couldn’t help but laugh as the crowd cheered them on.
Both teams came back to the court ready with a new energy with Valpo quickly putting a basket up on the scoreboard. Throughout third and fourth quarter there were a number of steals on both sides and both coaches paced the court, shouting directions to their players. The third quarter ended with Valparaiso up 54 to 35. Four minutes into third quarter, South Bend put 9 points up on the board but were still falling behind the Vikings at 56 - 44. In the end, Valparaiso was victorious beating South Bend 62-44.
The student section cheered throughout the game and proudly displayed their green and white gear. The crowd was especially loud at the end when it was evident the Vikings had won. William Weathersby, who was standing in the student section, has come to every Valparaiso home-game and stayed for the Meet the Vikes Night. Said Weathersby of the cheering sections, “It’s hype. It’s wild. It’s fun.”
After the basketball game, young fans were invited to “Meet the Vikes” autograph session. Many elementary school students lined up to take home a signed photo of the team. Peers and parents also stood in line to get an autograph and in some cases, a signed sweatshirt or cast. The night ended with community members, family, fans, and students mingling in the gymnasium. It was good night for the Valparaiso Vikings and a meaningful send-off for their seniors.