This past week, my 12-year-old son asked if I would take him and a buddy to the Loyalsock and Williamsport game. I checked my schedule, and we were scheduled for an early practice. I was thinking about doing some scouting but eventually caved. We loaded up the Jeep and made a quick stop in the 17728. Jensen and Owen Newcomer were busy in the back, and I was reliving some fond memories. The place was already packed, and I see they were redirecting traffic to the auditorium lot. Thankfully the folks from this part-time gig hooked me up with a press pass.

HI. JAMIE SPENCER. I AM WITH THE WEBB WEEKLY. I know who you are, Mr. Spencer. I read your columns. Right, this way. SCORE.

That simple gesture made my day. It also caused a stir for the 7th graders in the car. Perhaps for the very first time, Jensen thought his dad was a cool guy. I can’t possibly tell you the number of times I stepped foot on this floor. Nor can I describe those euphoric feelings when I walk through the door. It still looks and smells the same. You see, this court and I go back a long way. I practically lived in this historic gym back in the day.

I started as a fan and eventually became someone who occasionally got to “participate” in practice. OK. I could totally fib and insert a few bogus stat lines, but unfortunately, I was the ninth man on an eight-man rotation. We went on to the state final in ‘95, and I was along for the ride. I did score 12 points in a game in just three minutes of PT, but for the most part, I had the best seat in the MAGIC Dome for my entire scholastic career. Yes. I do have the box score. Truth be told, Coach only kept me around because he knew I’d help boost the overall GPA. He also told me that I was an integral part of the program. I was the only guy who had access to a car, and I would often give my teammates rides to and from practice.

I always wanted to coach when my playing days came to an end. Oh, what an honor it was to lead my Montoursville Warriors to victory over the mighty Millionaires back in ‘08. That night still ranks as the top in my many sporting moments. It was so very special to return last year with my St. John Neumann Knights to capture a DISTRICT 4 crown in front of my friends and family. I also got to cover many games for WRAK Sports and PASPORTSLIVE. It was a lot of fun while it lasted, and I always enjoyed broadcasting in the MAGIC Dome. Williamsport Area High School is the bomb, and I am very proud to be an alum.

I was busy shaking hands and kissing babies. It was good to see so many familiar faces. I ran into a pair of old teammates, and I also entertained many questions. Jensen and Owen got bored and sat with their friends. I was alone and decided to chill by myself in the “cool guy” corner. The stands were packed. It reminded me of the old days. I had no dog in the fight, but I was hoping for an entertaining game. This is a great rivalry.

The atmosphere was electric. Both student sections were a blast. Williamsport played extremely well in the second half and nipped their rivals 60-44. JJ Beagle was fantastic. He scored a career-high 22 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. The 6’5” active post has really improved. Kenon Brown had a nice game. He and many other Millionaires looked great. Loyalsock has recently had the PORT’S number. Senior All-State forward Saraj Ali sure worked hard for his 21 tallies. Williamsport has now won four straight games. They shared the ball and hustled on defense. Fun night out. There was definitely a buzz in the MAGIC Dome.

Now I have seen many impressive venues. Played, broadcasted, and coached in hundreds of cool courts. But these places don’t hold a candle to my all-time favorite gym. I may be biased, and I know that several would agree. I have nothing but love for Williamsport Area’s MAGIC Dome. Fantastic place.