Trojans on the march

By Patrick Browne

FELCH — On Feb. 28 the Forest Park Trojans took their 18–4 record on the road to match up against the Nordics of North Dickinson (13–10). The game marked the opening of the District playoffs and what Forest Park was hoping would be the first of many post-season games.

The contest began with Trojan freshman Vic Giuliani scoring the first points for Forest Park and, although the teams traded baskets throughout the first quarter, the Trojans went on to have five different players contribute to a 15–9 lead after eight minutes of play.
The Nordics worked hard to keep pace, but with a relentless offensive show and a tenacious defense for the Trojans, the lead slowly grew. Forest Park was up by 11 points at the half, behind three three-pointers by Senior Gaven Rintala and six points from Junior Kevin Giuliani.

Emerging from halftime, the Trojans scored 21 third-quarter points. Following a path that has been well trod this season, the team’s offense came alive after the break. The depth of the team was clearly on display with six Trojans scoring in the quarter. 
Gaven Rintala led Forest Park with 15 points, Vic Giuliani added 14 while his brother Kevin put up 12.

Forest Park Coach Jason Price was upbeat after the victory. 

“The boys executed the game plan very well against North Dickinson,” he said. “It was a team win. Everyone played and played with good energy.”

Having won the first game of the Districts, the Trojans earned the right to play the 18–5 Norway Knights. The teams played one another twice this season, with the Trojans winning on Jan. 4 and the Knights taking the game on Feb. 13.