Ross Township – March 20, 2024 – On Tuesday, March 12th, the Holy Cross Academy (HCA) Hawks JV Boys Basketball team defeated the Sacred Heart Crusaders to finish out an undefeated season as the Diocese of Pittsburgh Class A Champions - a first in school history. After finishing the 2022-2023 season 2nd in their section, the boys began their 2023-2024 campaign with determination. They competed and successfully dispatched a number of public schools (Mars, Avonworth, Shaler, and Steel Valley); entered and won the Blessed Trinity Academy tournament (back-to-back years) with a convincing win over St Louise; and finished undefeated with a perfect 12-0 record. The Hawks went into the playoffs with registered wins against St Therese Munhull, Mother of Mercy, and Guardian Angel in the semi-finals to face a very strong Sacred Heart team, finishing the season with an outstanding 25-0 record.
One remarkable aspect of this Holy Cross Academy team was that they were actually designated a B League school, identified by the number of students in the middle school grades. The Hawks persevered despite being one of the smallest schools in the league. The team was led by 6th grade players: Evan Crummie, Brady Miller, Josiah Couch, Chase Minton, Eamon Duffy, Matt Frisco, Cam Cheeks, Jeremiah Lemon, and Michael Zotter; and a handful of 5th graders who registered valuable minutes throughout the year: Jack Jackson, Daniel O'Donnel, Jack Mahoney, and Joey Aguglia.
The Holy Cross Academy JV program has made it to 3 total Final Fours since 2019 and finally took their first Diocesan Title under coaches Vince Spagnolo, Bryan Miller, and Jim Brent. This year's JV Hawks worked hard all year toward a common goal, supported by an outstanding parent group and Athletic Program, making this championship a total school victory.
Rooted in Gospel values and committed to academic excellence, Holy Cross Academy seeks to foster spiritual development, service to community and a life-long love of learning in every child. The philosophy of the Holy Cross athletics program is to develop and maintain fitness as well as a positive mental attitude, promoting good sportsmanship, teamwork, and camaraderie. If you are interested in learning more about Holy Cross Academy, including requesting a tour or enrolling, please visit www.holycrossacademypgh.org.
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