Jensen and I have been all over the map the past few months. He was invited to play on a U10 travel basketball squad, and we haven’t stopped. An old coaching friend from the 17740 organized this team. Most of the players reside on State Route 44 outside of Collomsville. My son and one other youngster are the only outsiders on the roster.

Jensen was a little hesitant at first. He is rather shy and afraid to try new things. Jensen didn’t know any of the coaches or kids. He finally caved when he found out he’d receive a reversible jersey that bared his name. Jensen signed a one-year contract to play for the Avengers, and we are so glad that he did.

The team would get together a few nights a week. We first used the hoops at the Nippenose Valley Village. Something terrible must have happened, as the Avengers are no longer welcome. We have yet to get the official details, but it’s cool. We get it folks. I’d imagine the village residents didn’t enjoy the sounds coming from the gym when it was time for bed. Special thanks to Amber and the Jersey Shore Y for providing us a new home to practice. Oh, the memories in this gym.

The Avengers played in three major hoops tournaments this March. We traveled to the Miller Center in Lewisburg, Susquehanna University, and Lycoming College. Beautiful facilities and wonderful experiences. All three, weekend outings were fun and rather competitive. The Avengers held their own against some of the best teams in the region. Someone needs to sign that kid from Berwick.

Having once been in the loop, I enjoyed seeing many old friends, coaches, and officials. I entertained a number of questions from the fans. Where have you been? What’s up with the golf course? Did you move to Jersey Shore? Are you running for County Commissioner? It was grand.

I played a different role with this team as I spent most of my time in the bleachers. Occasionally I was asked to sit at the scorers’ table in low-rise jeans. I will save you from the details. Coach Jordan Pauling and I go way back. He was on my staff at Montoursville when he was in college. Jordan has a great rapport with each kid. He knows the game and is a stickler on the fundamentals. Coach Ron Kodish is the man. He serves as the Avenger’s top assistant. Ron was an all-state baller for Lock Haven and Penn State University. Coach looks great for 69.

Nolan Pauling is our savvy point guard. The little guy excels at every sport he tries. Nolan has great vision and awareness for his age. Jake Lorson is a smooth and versatile wing. He can mix it up outside and below. Jake is rather quiet, and his game usually does the talking.

Austin Davidson lives on Route 87. He grew up with the Avengers and is very scrappy. Austin also likes to fish, and that’s why he’s one of my favorites. Kane Meixel is the best. This little youngster works hard and is the most improved. Kane always brings a smile, and he is quite the character.

Dekin McDermott is a great shooter. He is also a solid teammate. Dekin never complains.

Wentworth Bloom aka DUBS is the big fella down low. We have to remind him to use the backboard from time to time, but man he is a great kid. I no longer call him by his first name. #ouch.

Khani McCray is Coach Kodish’s grandson. He is very athletic and plays great defense. Khani is a big fan of the NBA and loves Steph Curry. He has great potential. Jensen Spencer has come a long way, and I thank the Avengers for reestablishing his love for the game. His improvements won’t show up on the stat sheets, but he learned so much in the past few weeks. Jensen had a wonderful experience and made some new Jersey Shore friends.

Congratulations to the Avengers on their dedication and achievement. I have really enjoyed watching you grow and develop over the course of this travel basketball season. Cheers.