Major props to the Jersey Shore Bulldogs and the Loyalsock Lancers. The girls’ afternoon showdown was outstanding. It was a great idea that required lots of planning. Kudos to the administrations. Both teams played at 1:30 p.m. on Monday. The stands were packed with Jersey Shore students. The game was sort of like a school assembly. The Lady Bulldogs embraced the moment, and they almost pulled off a major upset. Members of the boys’ team dressed up as ESPN analysts. I wasn’t there, but I heard it was an incredible atmosphere. A handful of Sock’s parents said it was absolute bedlam. The gym was so loud, and it was the ultimate experience. A game that both squads will always remember.
Loyalsock won 56-51 and improved to 21-1 on the season. Lacey Kriebel was clutch. The senior hit some big free throws down the stretch. She made six consecutive in the final 31 seconds. It was a great win for Coach Curtis Jacobson in a hostile yet super-fun venue.
“I tried not to pay attention to the noise,” Kriebel told reporters. “I practice foul shots all of the time. My dad even yells and screams in the background to help me tune everything out. I have been in those situations before, and it helped me tonight. It was a great game. What an environment. This will definitely help moving forward. I don’t think we’ll see a much better one down the road.”
Kriebel will play at Lock Haven University next winter. Making those big shots was no accident. She has spent countless hours honing her skills. She tries to get 300 shots up a day. Usually outside of practice. Her work has paid off. She has been huge for the Lancers in 2025. Well done, Lacey.
I would like to congratulate both schools who participated in this afternoon’s matinee. Much love to Coach Mike Schall and his staff, who pitched the idea this fall. I hope that more do something similar in the upcoming years. What a great experience. Remember kids. It is cool to cheer and support your fellow student-athletes. They will need you down the stretch, especially during playoffs. Times have changed, and I miss the sections. You can make a difference in the outcomes. A great fan base can go a long way. Cheers.
