Dreams come true at state

    The sweet taste of victory is still fresh in the minds of Lady Dragon basketball players after they won the consolation championship Saturday, March 10, at the Colorado 2A state tournament at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland.
    After a 30-39 loss to Limon Thursday, Holyoke went on to defeat Ignacio 45-35 Friday and Rangely 46-41 the following day in the consolation championship.
    “It’s an exciting time for our kids and our program,” said second-year head coach John Baumgartner. The girls haven’t been to the state tournament since 2011.
    “It felt great” to win that consolation trophy, said the coach, noting he’s very humbled and honored. “You only get there with great players and people who support you.” He gave credit to his assistant coach Ben Rahe, school administration, parents, fans, community and former players.
    “We worked really hard, and it was good for our hard work to pay off,” said Grace Dille, the only senior member of the team. She said it’s been a dream of hers to play on the state court since first grade. She’s seen her dad, who’s a boys basketball coach, take teams to state. “It made me want to go and not just watch but play and win.” Dille’s dream finally came true.