Somerset Co., PA (WJAC) — The Berlin Brothersvalley varsity boys’ basketball team in Somerset County is heading to Hershey to once again compete for a state title.
6 News spoke with players and coaches on Wednesday ahead of the championship game.
This isn't the first time the team has tasted chocolate town and team members say they are craving the return.
“We were there two years ago. Actually, seven of the players on this year's team got to experience it, at that time.”
This opportunity comes after the Mountaineers had a runner-up finish in 2021.
Players say they know the team they’re facing this season is skilled and has some big players.
“It brings a lot. We like to say that we bring hard defense, and our defense doesn’t affect our offense. So, we’re playing good defense and scoring a lot of points. As long as we keep doing that, I think we will be alright,” said senior Ryan Blubaugh.
So, what led them to this “slam dunk” opportunity? Head coach Tanner Prosser says they managed to defeat Lineville Hill in the Class 1A semifinal and he explains how the team has stayed focused.
“It’s been a grueling schedule, it really has. You’ve got to prepare for games, you've got to watch films, you've got to practice well. For our kids to stay levelheaded, and to compete for each other, and to be able to do it through this long process, has been really impressive.”
The school and community came together with a pep rally, introducing both the girls and boys’ teams, after the girls’ team also made it to the state semifinal game.
A parade was also held for them outside, with a fire truck and their bus seen leaving school property with children lining the streets and cheering them on.
“It would mean a lot. It would mean a lot for us, the town of Berlin, just everything.”
Coach Prosser also thanks the community for their support.
The Berlin boys will compete for the state championship on Thursday. Tipoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.
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