By GEORGE MAHL-Sports Editor

RESERVE – East St. John High School recently honored its players from the 2002-2003 boys and girls basketball season. The banquet, which took place at BB’s Restaurant, featured awards given to players and coaches as well as a video recap of the season.

“There is no question the future is bright for both the boys and girls teams,” said ESJ athletic director Larry Dauterive.

“These are some of the most loyal young men and women I have ever seen. They really love playing for these coaches.”

First to speak and distribute awards was Lady Cats head coach Troy Giordano.

“We made it to the sweet 16 this year…I can say I am proud to be a Wildcat,” explained Giordano.

What the River Parishes coach of the year was really impressed with was the way his team played a playoff game against McMain High School.

“That was an extraordinary performance against a good team. I was very proud of our effort in that game, as well as all of our games.”

Several players received plaques, including All-State guards Kojo Hamilton and Erin Keller. Hamilton was also named All-Metro and made the L’Observateur All-River Parishes team for his outstanding play. Keller, on the other hand, received the same accolades as Hamilton, but was also named Co-MVP of district 6-5A.

In the 2002-2003 season, the Lady Cats got their fourth straight 30-win season, while only losing one district game.

“I am very proud of the dedication, time and effort these ladies have. It’s important to develop productive young ladies for college.”

Players receiving awards were Rolanda Keller, Jada Mason, Erin Keller, Hamilton, Ashley Porter and Tiffany Bernard. Giordano also praised assistant coaches Bob Payne, Joe Williams and Dauterive.

“I thought Joe and Robert did a phenomenal job this year. I also must thank coach Doe (Dauterive) because I feel he goes above and beyond what an athletic director is supposed to do.”

The boys team finished with a record of 18-16, 8-6 district, and did better than most people expected.

“I had people tell me during the season that they couldn’t remember the last time when the boys basketball team won 18 games,” Dauterive said.

Players on hand to receive awards for the boys were Ronald Johnson, Ricky Johnson, Karnecio Hamilton, Ryan Perrilloux, Josh Woodard, Dywand Dennis and Ryan Stipe. Head coach Charles Julien described Hamilton as the team’s “Iron man.” He also added

“It seemed like he fouled out of every game he was in.” Julien’s remark drew a chuckle from the audience. Perrilloux was named All-Metro, All-River Parishes and district MVP. In addition, he averaged around 25 points per game during the season.

Dennis received district honorable mentioned this year. In addition, Julien was particularly impressed with Stipe’s performance off the court.

“Academically he goes above and beyond the rest,” Julien said. The first year head coach also appreciated the efforts of his assistants, Dale Savoie and Dustin Yates. “They both have dedication and work tirelessly.”

The only thing Julien would like to see more of is parent participation from the boys team.

ESJ principal Debbie Schum closed the ceremony by saying ” These are not only fine student-athletes, but fine young men and women. The coaches job is not only to make them good players, but to make them good people for our future.”