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The Annual PAL Basketball fundraiser is here! 

The World Famous Court Jesters

This basketball event features the World famous Court Jesters against the Westport Faculty All Stars.  Great fun for the whole family!  All ages welcome…

Fun for the whole family!

Date: This Friday, March 22, 2013

$12 a ticket - same as last year!

Time: 7pm, Doors open at 6:15pm

Place: Staples High School

Cost: $12 Per Person

Tickets can be purchased at the door. Tickets are also available at the Westport Parks & Rec offices at Longshore, JR’s Hot Dog Cafe’, or from current Westport PAL basketball players.

Any Questions?  Contact PAL Basketball President Howie Friedman (aesalarm@aol.com)

See you Friday night at 7 pm at Staples (doors open at 6:15 pm)

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By: Contributing PAL Parents and Players

A terrific season for the Westport PAL basketball program came to a conclusion last Saturday (3/9) with three teams advancing to Fairfield County Basketball League championship games.

The ladies of 8G capped their travel basketball careers with a second consecutive B division championship.

For the second time in three years, the young men of 8B ended their travel season with an A division championship.

And Coach Shuan Malone’s 6B made it to the A division (north) championship game, fought valiantly but fell to a talented Newtown Blue squad.

Westport PAL 8G

2013 FCBL B division champions - Westport PAL 8G: (standing L-R): Coach Samantha DiLeo, Grace McGinley, Virginia Gerig, Julia Brower, Claire Meehan and Coach Kasey Keegan); (seated L-R): Olivia Troy, Charlotte Rossi, Morgan McWhirter, Rachel Seideman, PAL basketball president Howie Friedman and Mary McGee

For the third consecutive season, the ladies of 8G made it to the final day of the FCBL season, and for the second consecutive season, walked away with a championship trophy after defeating a game and well-coached Weston team 30-28 in the finals at Ridgefield High School.

8G’s eighteenth and final victory of the season was undoubtedly the sweetest, coming with tough defense, timely offense and contributions from all.  Coaches Sam DiLeo and Kasey Keegan have consistently employed full court trapping pressure to turn-over opponents and help create offense.  Every basket was needed on Saturday.  With Weston playing tough half-court defense, points were at a premium.  Although 8G lead throughout the game, Weston never let Westport get comfortable and pushed 8G to the edge by making up a seven point deficit at the end of the third quarter and taking its first lead by three points early in the final quarter.

Severely tested, Westport showed its poise by battling back to re-gain and finally secure the two-point victory.  Balanced scoring from Julia Brower, Grace McGinley, Olivia Troy and Rachel Seideman, together with hard-nosed defense and rebounding from Virginia Gerig, Mary McGee, Morgan McWhirter and Charlotte Rossi was just enough to overcome Weston Coach Annie Ackerman’s determined squad, led by point guard Kayla Koch and forward Courtney Caolo.

Westport PAL 8B

Westport PAL 8B's Ben Casparius (#5) goes up for two of his game high 25 points in 8B's FCBL A division championship victory over West Haven

It is exciting to play your best basketball of the season when it matters the most.   Coaches Glenn O’Neill, Tom Whelan and Brendan Morgan have navigated the highs and lows with the young men of 8B all season and, on the heels of solid balanced play in last weekend’s quarter-final and semi-final victories, were optimistic that 8B would play well against West Haven.  With a late Saturday afternoon tip-off at Weston High School, excitement and nerves built right up until game time.

Westport PAL 8B's Justin Seideman (#3) floats over the West Haven defense for two of his 22 points in 8B's FCBL A division championship victory on Saturday, March 9

Following tip-off, any nerves were quickly replaced by enthusiasm and effort, as 8B immediately “sprang ahead” behind a pair of opening buckets from Brendan Massoud.  It was a lead that 8B would never relinquish, stringing together 20 points in each of the first and second quarters to take a sixteen point half-time lead.  West Haven refused to back down and, after some half-time adjustments, began to slow down 8B and chip-away at its lead.  On this day, however, 8B kept its poise and its focus, never allowing the lead to fall below nine points.  In the end, that poise and focus ensured a satisfying victory and championship, 68-55.

Westport PAL 8B's Brendan Massoud (#15) scraps for the rebound as teammates Sean Pritchett (#4), Matty Fair (#10) and Justin Seideman (#3) looks to start the fast break during 8B's FCBL A division championship victory over West Haven

In the victory, 8B was led by Ben Casparius (25 points, including multiple 3-point bombs, 3 rebounds and 2 steals) and Justin Seideman (22 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, a number of assists and a single turn-over); however, 8B’s barometer of success all season, its balance, was on full display, including Sean Pritchett (6 points and 6 rebounds in just his second weekend of action following recovery from a broken fibula), Mack Muller (5 points, 6 rebounds and a block), Brendan Massoud (4 rebounds to go along with his 4 points), Ryan Fitton (2 points, 5 rebounds and a steal), Jesse Levinson (3 rebounds, a number of assists and solid ball-handling and floor leadership), Josh “Fletch” Berman (2 points, a rebound and a steal), Kenny Brill (2 points and 2 rebounds), Fritz Schemel (several assists and on the ball pressure) and Matty Fair (2 rebounds, a steal and several assists).

2013 FCBL A division champions Westport PAL 8B: (standing L-R): Head Coach Glenn O'Neill, Ryan Fitton, Matty Fair, Sean Pritchett, Ben Casparius, Mack Muller, Justin Seideman, Coach Tom Whelan and Coach Brendan Morgan; (kneeling L-R): Brendan Massoud, Kenny Brill, Jesse Levinson, Fritz Schemel and Josh "Fletch" Berman

Westport PAL 6B

2013 FCBL finalists Westport PAL 6B

Coming into the FCBL playoffs, Coach Shuan Malone and the Westport PAL 6B boys forgot about a losing streak and began a playoff winning streak that took them to Saturday’s FCBL finals in Darien against Newtown Blue.

Although 6B fell to Newtown, the finalists played hard and well and should be poised for improvement and additional success next season.

Congratulations to all of the PAL basketball teams and coaches this season and don’t forget the annual PAL basketball fund raiser, featuring the World Famous Court Jesters against the Westport Faculty All Stars, to be held on Friday, March 22 at Staples.  The game tips at 7 pm and doors will open at 6:15 pm.  Tickets are again just $12 and can be purchased at the Westport Parks and Rec offices, at JR’s Hot Dog Café’, from Westport PAL basketball players and at the door – great fun for the whole family!

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By: Contributing PAL Parents and Players

All eight of the Westport PAL travel basketball teams entered last weekend’s playoffs with championship aspirations.  Three teams successfully navigated the weekend to make it to championship games next Saturday (3/9).

5G, 5B, 6G, 7G and 7B battled valiantly but saw their season’s end, while 6B, 8G and 8B advanced and will prepare this week for the tremendous opportunity to finish a season with a win.

Westport PAL 6B

2013 FCBL 6B finalists - Westport PAL 6B

Coach Shuan Malone and the Westport PAL 6B boys entered the FCBL playoffs on a three game losing streak but confident in their ability to battle any opponent.

Short memories and a week of playoff preparations had 6B ready to get on a winning streak last Saturday (3/2), when it took on St. Marks-Stratford in the quarter-finals of the single elimination FCBL tournament.  In a back and forth battle that had the teams closely contesting each other throughout, 6B made the plays down the stretch to cement a solid five point victory (46-41), earning the right to move on to the semi-finals on Sunday (3/3).  In the semi-finals against Ridgefield, 6B played one of its most complete games of the season, contesting every Ridgefield shot while running Coach Malone’s offensive sets to secure open shots.  In the end, 6B imposed its will on Ridgefield, winning by 14 points (62-48) and securing a spot in a 6B championship game.

Coach Malone and the boys of 6B will practice this week in preparation to take on talented Newtown Blue 6B on Saturday (3/9) at Darien High School (South).  The game will tip-off at 5 pm.

Westport PAL 8G

2013 FCBL 8G finalists - Westport PAL 8G

In four years of Westport PAL travel basketball, through different coaches, different opponents and different outcomes, the ladies of Westport PAL 8G have worked hard and persevered.  The hard work has paid off as 8G will make its third consecutive appearance in an FCBL championship game, with the chance for an 18^th victory (against 5 defeats) and the opportunity for a second consecutive trophy.

Coaches Sam DiLeo and Kasey Keegan have 8G playing some of its best and most complete basketball of the season, with contributions up and down the roster.  On Saturday (3/2), 8G’s quarter-final opponent was Bridgeport Trumbull-Gardens.  8G was familiar with the scrappy ladies of BTG, having tied them in an early season game before squeaking out a four-point victory during the FCBL league season.  In last Saturday’s third meeting, 8G shot out of the gate, quickly built a double digit lead and never looked back, overcoming BTG’s full-court press and hitting free throws to earn a semi-final appearance (34-17).  Olivia Troy was an offensive force, while Rachel Seideman had just a single turnover against the BTG press to help run the offense and play tough on ball defense against BTG’s talented point guard.  Up front, 8G controlled the offensive and defensive glass with Grace McGinley, Virginia Gerig and Julia Brower.  On the wings, Charlotte Rossi and Morgan McWhirter contributed on the offensive and defensive ends to help 8G earn the victory.

In Sunday’s semi-final against Newtown 8G, the ladies of 8G once again shot out of the gate to a double digit lead, with Rachel Seideman scoring 11 of 8G’s 21 first-half points, assisted by solid high post screens from Olivia Troy and Charlotte Rossi.  Newtown was valiant and did not back down, eventually closing the double digit lead in the fourth quarter by employing a swarming full court press.  8G managed to hold its poise, never relinquished the lead and earned another shot at a championship (38-33).  Once again, contributions came up and down the line-up, assisted in the semi-finals by the return of Mary McGee.  The size of Grace McGinley, Virginia Gerig and Julia Brower led to blocked Newtown shots and, eventually, increasing use of the long outside shot.  Those shots were well contested throughout the game by Olivia Troy, Charlotte Rossi and Morgan McWhirter.

Coaches DiLeo and Keegan will get 8G ready this week to meet a familiar and pesky foe.  In Saturday’s (3/9) championship game at 1:50 pm at Ridgefield High School, 8G will take on Weston for the chance to finish the season with a victory and a trophy.

Westport PAL 8B

An inconsistent, injury-plagued and even disappointing regular season that had the boys of 8B finishing with an around .500 record could have been viewed as a precursor to an early exit from the FCBL playoffs this year.  But Coaches Glenn O’Neill, Tom Whelan and Brendan Morgan have seen and cultivated the talent and togetherness of the 8B squad all season and viewed the playoffs as the opportunity for a season’s worth of work to be put on display.

Ben Casparius rises and fires the jump shot in Westport PAL 8B's quarter-final victory over Waterbury

In last Saturday afternoon’s quarterfinal contest, 8B took on a talented Waterbury squad.  Both teams opened with strong defensive performances that kept the scoring down and the squads neck and neck through most of the first half.  In the game’s key moments as halftime approached, 8B strung several shots together to take a 6-point lead that it never relinquished.  That momentum continued through the third quarter as 8B built its lead to eleven, and through the fourth quarter, on the way to a thirteen point victory (64-51).  Ben Casparius led the way for 8B (23 points, 11 rebounds, 3 steals and 1 blocked shot); however, 8B’s balance re-appeared, bolstered by the return of talented wing player Sean Pritchett (13 points and 5 rebounds in Sean’s first game action following recovery from a broken fibula), Mack Muller (11 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocked shots) and solid floor leadership and on ball defense from Jesse Levinson – forced to carry the ball handling duties against Waterbury due to foul trouble for Justin Seideman.

Westport PAL 8B's Kenny Brill (#11) and Mack Muller look to trap the Waterbury ball handler in last weekend's quarter-final victory

Sunday afternoon’s semi-final was against a familiar foe – Carver Center-Norwalk.  Bucking season long trends, 8B came out flying on both ends of the court, taking a 20-7 lead after the first quarter.  Undeterred, Carver Center-Norwalk held 8B to just five points in the second quarter, creeping to within five points (25-20) at halftime.  Momentum seemed to continue in Carver Center-Norwalk’s favor into the third quarter as they tied and ultimately inched ahead of 8B at the end of the third (35-38).  With the chance to fade away or pull it together, 8B played a solid final quarter on both ends of the floor, holding Carver Center-Norwalk to 8 points while scoring 23 to seal the victory and the chance at a championship (58-46).  In another clutch and complete playoff performance, Ben Casparius led 8B (20 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 blocked shot), with contributions from Justin Seideman (14 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 blocked shot) and the resurgent Mack Muller (10 points, 11 rebounds, 2 steals); however, once again, 8B’s success was attributable to balance, with contributions from Josh Berman (5 points, 1 rebound, 1 steal), Jesse Levinson (4 points, 6 rebounds, 1 steal) and Brendan Massoud (2 points, 2 rebounds).

Westport PAL 8B's Kenny Brill (#11), Matty Fair (#10) and Fritz Schemel (#12) in 8B's semi-final victory over Carver Center-Norwalk

8B will practice this week before taking on West Haven in the championship game on Saturday (3/9) at 6:10 pm at Weston High School.

Westport PAL 5G

Winning 18 consecutive games to begin a travel basketball career is remarkable.  Going the entire FCBL season without a defeat is uncommon.  The Westport PAL 5G girls entered the playoffs with a huge bull’s eye on their backs and, in the double-elimination playoffs, the squads from Shelton and Orange were loaded for bear as they each defeated 5G, ending their incredible run.

The defeats sting but shouldn’t lessen the pride of a season that ends with 18 victories and just 2 defeats.  Coach Karen Puskas and the girls of 5G are likely to be heard from a lot during the next few winter travel basketball seasons.

Westport PAL 5B

Unfortunately, Coach Charles Connor’s Westport PAL 5B boys were unable to re-capture the “mojo” that had them on a seven game winning streak as recently as mid-February.  Tough road games to finish the FCBL regular season were followed by an opening playoff round game against the talented and scrappy Fairfield PAL Celtics.  In a close, hard-fought game throughout, Fairfield ended 5B’s season last Saturday (33-38).  5B completes an incredibly successful initial travel basketball season with 15 victories against 8 defeats.

Westport PAL 6G

After an up and down regular season hampered by cancellations from the snow storm and despite not having played a game since mid-February, Coach Johanna McNelis and the Westport PAL 6G girls entered the double-elimination playoffs with high hopes.  Unfortunately, so did the talented Stamford Young Timers and St. Mary’s Ridgefield.  On Friday evening (3/1), the Stamford Young Timers sent 6G to an initial defeat, while on Saturday (3/2), St. Mary’s-Ridgefield ended 6G’s season.

Westport PAL 7G

Coach Chris Scholz and the Westport PAL 7G girls were riding high into mid-February; however, cancellations from the snow storm left 7G preparing for the FCBL playoffs without game action since February 15th.  In the single elimination playoffs, that rust, together with a tough squad from Bethel, ended 7G’s playoff run in a tight six-point loss on Saturday (3/2).

Westport PAL 7B

On a nine game winning streak to end the regular season, the Westport PAL 7B boys and Coaches Vinnie Rissolo and Andrew Strauss entered the playoffs with expectations.  And after a quarter-final victory over Southbury (47-43) on Saturday (3/2), 7B took on Wilton on Sunday (3/3) at Chelsea Piers-Stamford riding a ten game winning streak.  Unfortunately, winning streaks ultimately end and 7B was unable to extend its streak to eleven as Wilton defeated 7B to move on to next weekend’s championship game.

Saturday’s defeat does not diminish the incredible regular season of 7B, including its regular season B division championship.

Congratulations to all of the PAL basketball teams and coaches this season, and good luck to 6B, 8G and 8B in their respective championship games this weekend.

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By: Contributing PAL Parents and Players

While snow storms and school vacations conspired to sap momentum from several of the Westport PAL travel basketball teams as they completed their regular seasons, it is now FCBL playoff time.  With the playoffs starting this Friday (3/1):

Can 5G complete an incredible first travel season undefeated?

Can 7B continue its incredible turn-around from bottom of the pack to top of the heap?

Can 8G repeat last season’s playoff championship?

How many Westport PAL teams can make it through the first playoff weekend to championship games next weekend (March 9 and 10)?

With school back in session and the playoffs upon us, throw out those regular season records and let’s play some elimination hoops.

Westport PAL 5G

The undefeated girls of PAL basketball's 5G

The Westport PAL 5G girls completed an incredible undefeated regular season with their 18^th consecutive victory in New Fairfield (24-13) on Saturday (2/16).

Following the winter school break, Coach Karen Puskas’ squad will practice twice this week before beginning its playoff push on Friday evening (3/1) in Weston against Shelton.  Win or lose, 5G will play again on Saturday in a single elimination game.  With a victory on Saturday, 5G would play again on Sunday – and a chance to move to a championship game next Sunday (3/10) in Danbury.

Westport PAL 5B

After a seven game winning streak was ended earlier in February, the Westport PAL 5B boys completed the regular season with three consecutive road games, winning one and losing two for a final regular season record of 15 wins and 7 losses.

2012-2013 PAL basketball 5B

Coach Charles Connor’s squad headed into the school break with a tough loss to the Darien YMCA Blue (31-33).  Following the break, 5B lost a second consecutive close game, this time to Ridgefield (55-60); however, 5B ended the regular season on a high note by defeating the Greenwich Flame (47-38).

5B secured a first round playoff bye and will play the winner of the Fairfield PAL Celtics and Weston Gold on Saturday (3/2) in Easton.  With a victory, 5B would play again on Sunday at Chelsea Piers-Stamford – and a chance to move to a championship game next Saturday (3/9) in Darien.

Westport PAL 6G

As a result of cancellations due to the snow storm, along with the school vacation break, the Westport PAL 6G girls have played just one game in the last three weeks – a final regular season loss to Wilton (18-31) on Wednesday (2/13).  Coach Johanna McNelis and Assistant Andy Lipman are looking to shake out the cobwebs this week in advance of this weekend’s playoffs.

2012-2013 Westport PAL 6G

6G begins its playoff run on Friday evening (3/1) in Stamford against the Stamford YMCA.  With a victory, 6G would play again on Sunday in Darien – and a chance to move to a championship game next Sunday (3/10) in Ridgefield.

Westport PAL 6B

Coach Shuan Malone and the Westport PAL 6B boys have experienced the thrill of victory (a five game winning streak through early February) and the agony of defeat (a recent three game losing streak) to end the FCBL A East division regular season at 11 victories and 7 defeats.

6B hopes that the school break, short memories and a week of playoff preparations will have the squad poised to make a playoff run.  6B’s playoffs start Saturday (3/2) against St. Marks-Stratford at St. Joseph’s High School in Trumbull.  With a victory on Saturday, 6B would play again on Sunday in Weston – and a chance to move to a championship game next Saturday (3/9) in Darien.

Westport PAL 7G

2012-2013 Westport PAL 7G

With a rare mid-season break, along with snow storm cancellations and the winter school break, the Westport PAL 7G girls played just three games in February.  Unfortunately, three close defeats to Trumbull Travel (33-39), Wilton White (39-41) and Norwalk Black (36-39) pushed 7G back in the FCBL A division and a regular season record of 9 wins and 8 losses.

Coach Chris Scholz is among the most experienced PAL coaches and, with a week of practices, 7G hopes for a successful playoff run.  7G’s playoffs start on Saturday (3/2) in Danbury against Bethel.  With a victory on Saturday, 7G would play again on Sunday in Newtown – and a chance to move to a championship game next Sunday (3/10) in Danbury.

Westport PAL 7B

2012-2013 FCBL B regular season division winners - Westport PAL 7B

In the category of “feel good team of the year”, the Westport PAL 7B boys are the runaway winners.  After losing its first eight games of the season, 7B finished the regular season on an incredible nine game winning streak that catapulted the squad all the way to first place in the FCBL B Jim Callahan division (12 victories and 10 losses, including 10 wins and 2 losses in division).

7B’s eighth and ninth consecutive victories, over Weston Gold (32-23) and Monroe 7B (42.-17), preceded the winter school break.  Coaches Vinnie Rissolo and Andrew Strauss have this week of practice to reignite the boys of 7B for a playoff dash.

7B receives a first round bye and will begin its playoffs on Saturday (3/2) in Stamford against the winner of Kings Kids-Bridgeport and Southbury.  With a victory on Saturday, 7B would play again on Sunday at Chelsea Piers-Stamford – and a chance to move to a championship game next Sunday (3/10) in Westport.

Westport PAL 8G

2012-2013 Westport PAL 8G: (seated L-R): Olivia Troy, Charlotte Rossi, Rachel Seideman and Virginia Gerig; (standing L-R): Coach Samantha DiLeo, Mary McGee, Julia Brower, Morgan McWhirter, Claire Meehan and Grace McGinley (not pictured: Assistant Coach Kacey Keegan)

The ladies of Westport PAL 8G have tended to play up or down to their competition during the season.  That trend continued in 8G’s regular season finale as 8G again went outside of the FCBL B division to take on A division opponent Wilton.  In a nip and tuck contest throughout, 8G was more consistent down the stretch and pulled out a satisfying victory (48-41), finishing the regular season with 15 victories, 5 defeats and 1 tie (including 5 victories and 4 defeats in division).

Coaches Sam DiLeo and Kasey Keegan will spend practice time this week getting 8G primed to make another deep playoff run.  With a victory on Saturday, 8G would play again at St. Joseph’s on Sunday – with a chance to move to a championship game next Saturday (3/9) in Ridgefield.

Westport PAL 8B

Injuries, illnesses and inconsistency have plagued the Westport PAL 8B boys throughout a long and rugged regular season in the FCBL A division.  Coach Glenn O’Neill’s squad wrapped up the regular season with two victories and two defeats, finishing at 12 victories and 13 defeats overall.

On Friday evening (2/15), 8B defeated Ridgefield (65-34).  In the win, 8B was led by Justin Seideman (22 points, a rebound and a steal); however, contributions came from all, including Ben Casparius (9 points, 3 rebounds and 3 steals), Mack Muller (9 points, 2 rebounds and a steal), Ryan Fitton (5 points and 5 rebounds), Fritz Schemel (6 points on two three-point bombs), Jesse Levinson (4 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals), Brendan Massoud (4 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steals), Josh Berman (4 points and 2 rebounds), Kenny Brill (2 points) and Matty Fair (2 rebounds).

2012-2013 Westport PAL 8B

On Sunday (2/17), with a limited squad of just five players and two road games, 8B defeated St. Mary’s Ridgefield (54-45) before falling to Norwalk (70-74).  On Sunday (2/24), Ridgefield exacted revenge on its home floor and defeated a limited squad of just six 8B players (34-46).

With regular season records now thrown out, the potential return of talented forward Sean Pritchett following an ankle injury and a fresh playoff season ahead, 8B looks to start a winning streak this Saturday (3/2) in Weston against the winner of Friday evening’s game between the Waterbury Ballers and Norwalk Youth Green.  With a victory on Saturday, 8B would play again on Sunday at St. Joseph’s High School in Trumbull – with a chance to move to a championship game next Saturday (3/9) in Weston.

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By: Contributing PAL Parents and Players

February has arrived.  With just two weeks until the end of the FCBL regular season and school vacation, the Westport PAL travel basketball teams have only a precious few remaining games to secure playoff positions.  In games from February 1-3, 5G looked to stay undefeated, 5B looked to build on a seven game winning streak, 6B looked to continue its three game winning streak and 7B looked to extend its six game winning streak and continue its incredible climb all the way back to .500.

Westport PAL basketball teams will complete their regular season games this weekend or next, head out for a well-deserved break, and then return for FCBL playoffs that begin February 28.

Westport PAL 5G

The Westport PAL 5G girls remained undefeated and solidified their position at the top of the FCBL B division last weekend.  Coach Karen Puskas’ squad has now played and won 17 games to begin their travel basketball careers, with only 3 games remaining in the regular season.

Last Saturday (2/2), 5G traveled to meet division opponent Weston.  Defense has been the basis of 5G’s success all season and it remained so last Saturday, with 5G’s stifling pressure from multiple zone sets keeping Weston off balance as 5G prevailed (33-17).

5G plays twice this weekend, hosting Southbury on Saturday (2/9) before traveling to take on New Fairfield on Sunday.

Westport PAL 5B

The Westport PAL 5B boys began the weekend having won seven games in a row; however, with 3 games last weekend, 5B remained hungry for more.

Westport PAL 5B wears green socks in its recent game against Newtown to honor the victims of the school shooting tragedy

On Friday evening (2/1), 5B ran its winning streak to eight with a high scoring shootout victory over Chelsea Piers-Westport (54-45).  On Saturday, 5B took its winning streak on the road, traveling to St. Mary’s-Ridgefield.  In a tempo reversal from Friday evening, 5B showed its defensive prowess, winning a low-scoring game (39-22) to run its winning streak to nine.  Back in division on Sunday, 5B hosted Newtown.  In a nip and tuck battle that went down to the wire, Newtown ended 5B’s winning streak (41-44).  Despite the loss, 5B remains in the pack of the competitive FCBL 5 Boys A division.

Coach Charles Connor and 5B looks to start a new winning streak with a single game this weekend, hosting New Canaan on Sunday (2/10).

Westport PAL 6G

2012-2013 Westport PAL 6G

The Westport PAL 6G girls have played some excellent basketball this season and currently sport a record of 8 victories and 5 defeats.  Under the leadership of Coach Johanna McNelis and Assistant Andy Lipman, 6G has had strong wins against Trumbull, New Canaan, Darien and Shelton.  6G’s toughest opponent to date has been the talented squad from Norwalk, which has defeated 6G twice this season.  6G’s success has been rooted in defense, ball movement and strong rebounding, especially on the offensive boards.  While offense has been a challenge, 6G has improved recently, scoring over 30 points in its recent victory over Trumbull.

Westport PAL 6G in recent action against Norwalk

Last weekend, 6G played and won two nail biters.  On Saturday (2/2), 6G faced a scrappy Darien YMCA team.  Although 6G led the entire game, Darien never let the girls of 6G get comfortable up until the final horn of 6G’s four point victory (22-18).

On Sunday, 6G erupted for its highest offensive output of the season while facing a very aggressive Wilton team that stayed with 6G throughout the first half.  In the third quarter, Wilton nailed a series of outside jumpers to take a ten-point lead into the fourth quarter; however, 6G would not be denied.  Chipping away at the lead throughout the fourth quarter, 6G went ahead by two with less than a minute to play; however, Wilton fought back to tie the score with twenty seconds left and forced overtime.  In the overtime, 6G’s defense was relentless, holding Wilton scoreless and silencing the raucous Wilton crowd on the way to a satisfying victory (46-38).  In the overtime win, point guard Ellie F. exploded for 30 of 6G’s 46 points, reminding 6G foes that “you can’t stop Ellie F., you can only hope to contain her.”

6G looks to stay steady on defense and keep improving on offense as it plays three of its remaining four regular season games this weekend.  On Friday evening (2/8), 6G hosts the Stamford Young Timers.  On Saturday, 6G hosts Wilton and on Sunday 6G hosts Shelton.

Westport PAL 6B

Coach Shuan Malone and the Westport PAL 6B boys are playing their best basketball of the season, rising to third place in the competitive FCBL A East division, and poised to finish the season strongly.  6B now sports a record of 11 victories and 4 losses (4-2 in division).  With three victories on the road last weekend, 6B has now won five games in a row.

Last Friday evening (2/1), 6B got the weekend off to a good start by traveling to and holding off the Darien YMCA in a hard-fought two-point game (66-64).  On Saturday, 6B turned up the intensity and sprinted away from Weston (66-36).  And on Sunday, the 6B “road warriors” headed up I-95 and came away with a tight, high-scoring victory over Fairfield Hoops (62-57).

6B looks to extend its winning streak and its reputation as a tough team on the road when it plays 3 games.  On Friday evening (2/8), 6B travels to take on Bridgeport Trumbull Gardens before a rare double-header on Sunday.  In the early afternoon on Sunday, 6B travels to take on Madison Black before returning to finish the weekend at home against Fairfield PAL Stags.

Westport PAL 7G

2012-2013 Westport PAL 7G

After a rare mid-season break last weekend, the Westport PAL 7G girls remain firmly situated in the thick of the FCBL A division at 9 wins and 5 losses.

Back in action this weekend, Coach Chris Scholz takes 7G on the road to meet Wilton on Saturday (2/9), before hosting Trumbull on Sunday.

Westport PAL 7B

Westport PAL 7B runs the fast break in recent action

When a team loses its first eight games of the season, no one would blame coaches, players, families or fans from thinking that the season was already over.  The Westport PAL 7B boys, coaches Vinnie Rissolo and Andrew Strauss, families and fans had other ideas.  After an incredible turn-around that is testament to hard work and perseverance, 7B pushed all the way to the top of the FCBL B Jim Callahan division.  Following an incredible seventh consecutive victory, 7B moved to 10 wins and 2 losses in division, evening its overall record at 10 wins and 10 losses on the season.

7B ran its winning streak to seven last Friday evening (2/1) against Redding-Easton (41-24) with constant defensive pressure, crisp passing and timely shooting.

7B goes outside its division this weekend, hosting the Darien YMCA on Friday evening (2/8) before traveling to take on the Stamford Youth on Sunday.

Tough rotating defense from Westport PAL 7B during recent game action

Westport PAL 8G

Coaches Sam DiLeo and Kasey Keegan looked to take the Westport PAL 8G ladies outside of the FCBL B division last weekend in two games against A division opponents.  8G did not disappoint, holding it close against A division leader St. Mary’s-Ridgefield and defeating Greenwich B&G Club to raise its record to 14 victories, 4 losses and 1 tie.  8G remains near the top of the FCBL B division as the playoffs approach.

Last Friday evening (2/1), 8G had a tall order against A division leader St. Mary’s-Ridgefield.  In a nip and tuck battle throughout, good defense by both teams kept each from building a safe lead.  The see-saw battle had 8G out to an early lead that it was ultimately unable to hold as St. Mary’s-Ridgefield showed its talent in pulling out the four-point victory (19-23).  Hoping to avoid a losing streak, 8G found its offensive flow while maintaining its defensive pressure against Greenwich, getting out to a lead that it never relinquished (33-28).

8G stays in the A division on Friday evening (2/8), hosting Wilton, before traveling and playing back in division in a battle for second place against the Stamford Young-Timers on Sunday afternoon.

Westport PAL 8B

8B's Ryan Fitton (#23) and Mack Muller (#24) prepare to take on the Darien YMCA

The familiar refrain of Coach Glenn O’Neill to his Westport PAL 8B boys has been “there are no easy games in the FCBL A division this season.”  With games last weekend against teams higher in the standings, and without talented forward Sean Pritchett due to a potentially season-ending ankle injury, 8B tested the adage and looked to move up as the playoffs approach.

On Friday evening (2/1), 8B laced them up against familiar foe New Canaan Black.  In one of 8B’s most consistent and balanced performances of the season, 8B prevailed (57-51).  8B scored the first 4 points of the game, fell behind, but then found a groove to go toe-to-toe with New Canaan.  New Canaan’s talented trio, led by scoring swing man Tyler Sweeney and assisted by do everything James Crovatto and steady rebounder Timmy Russo, made 8B work for everything.  But 8B was up to the challenge on this night, led by strong contributions on the offensive and defensive ends from Mack Muller.  Balance was again on display for 8B as it got contributions from everyone up and down the roster in the six point victory.

On Sunday, 8B faced Darien.  In another back and forth contest, Darien led by four after the first quarter, by nine at halftime and by six after three quarters.  Unfortunately, Darien’s combination of tough inside defense led by the shot-blocking, shot-altering and rebounding of Alex Preston, complimented by the shooting and slashing of Darien’s guards and small forwards, wore down 8B and Darien prevailed (47-59).  In the loss, Mack Muller completed a strong weekend by leading 8B with 15 points, 1 rebound and 1 block.  Ben Casparius (14 points. 2 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block), Justin Seideman (8 points, 2 steals and a handful of assists) and Ryan Fitton (4 points and 6 rebounds) rounded out 8B’s leaders in Sunday’s defeat.

8B's Mack Muller (#24) looks to take his Darien YMCA defender off the dribble

In a pair of home games, 8B goes out of division this weekend.  On Friday evening (2/8), 8B hosts Weston Gold.  On Sunday, St. Theresa-Trumbull visits Westport.

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By: Contributing PAL Parents and Players

As February approaches, the Westport PAL travel basketball teams have moved into the home stretch of the FCBL regular season.  In games from January 25-27, 5G put its undefeated season on the line against the other two remaining undefeated teams, 5B looked to extend its four-game winning streak, 7B looked to continue its incredible climb up the standings of its division, 7G looked to continue winning on Fridays while also breaking its Sunday losing streak, and 8B just looked to get a win.

With only two (2) weeks remaining in the regular season, the jockeying for FCBL playoff positions is on and Westport PAL basketball is in the thick of the regular season races.

Westport PAL 5G

The undefeated girls of PAL basketball's 5G

The Westport PAL 5G girls confronted a brutal three-game schedule last weekend, including games against the other remaining undefeated squads in the FCBL B division.  As fans of Coach Karen Puskas’ scrappy, hard-nosed squad have come to expect, 5G didn’t disappoint.

On Friday evening (1/25), 5G traveled to meet fellow undefeated Shelton.  Sticking to a familiar script, 5G combined constant defensive pressure from rolling substitutions with timely baskets in a hostile environment, ultimately defeating a game Shelton squad (19-17).  On Saturday, fans wondered whether 5G might look past Stamford Young Timers in anticipation of Sunday’s tilt with remaining undefeated Fairfield PAL Sun.  Any worries were unfounded as suffocating defense and a scoring explosion had 5G coasting to a strong victory at home against Stamford (35-9).  In Sunday’s showdown against Fairfield, 5G again refused to lose, taking down the remaining division undefeated squad in another exciting contest (20-15).  The weekend leaves 5G with an incredible record of 16 wins and 0 losses, with three remaining regular season games to play.

Following last weekend’s three games in three days, 5G has a light schedule this weekend with just a single game in Weston on Saturday (2/2).

Westport PAL 5B

5B's Benny F. leads the fast break against the Darien YMCA

In the midst of a four game winning streak, Coach Charles Connors’ Westport PAL 5B boys looked to keep up the momentum with three games, including back-to-back games on Saturday (1/26).

In its first game on Saturday, 5B traveled to Danbury, hit the gas pedal against Hat City-Danbury and never looked back on the way to a fifth consecutive win (45-22).  Staying in the area, 5B next headed for a late afternoon match-up with New Fairfield.  Once again, 5B went on a scoring spree that left its opponent struggling to keep up, sprinting to a sixth consecutive victory (46-18).  Back home on Sunday against Darien, 5B adapted to a lower tempo game and pushed its winning streak to seven in a defensive struggle (29-21).

5B's Jake T. rises and fires from long range against the Darien YMCA

5B will look to continue its winning ways this weekend with a busy four game schedule.  5B kicks off its weekend on Friday (2/1), at home against Chelsea Piers-Westport.  On Saturday, 5B hosts St. Mary’s-Ridgefield.  Then on Sunday, 5B has a double header, hosting Newtown before traveling to finish the weekend at Southbury.

5B's Justin P. rises and fires the jump shot against the Darien YMCA

Westport PAL 6G

The Westport PAL 6G girls continue their search for consistency in the FCBL A division, splitting two games last weekend to remain above .500 on the season with 6 wins and 5 losses.

On Saturday (1/26), 6G’s first two-game winning streak of the season was ended in a defensive struggle with division powerhouse St. Mary’s-Ridgefield (15-26).  6G quickly bounced back on Sunday at home, defeating division opponent Monroe (28-23).

6G will try to keep the winning formula when it travels to take on the Darien YMCA on Saturday (2/2) before hosting Wilton on Sunday.

Westport PAL 6B

Heading down the stretch of the regular season, Coach Shuan Malone has the Westport PAL 6B boys in the thick of the competitive FCBL A East division.  Following consecutive victories last weekend, 6B has three games this weekend including two division games.

Last Saturday (1/26), 6B defeated Shelton at home (60-42) and then traveled on Sunday to defeat St. Mary’s-Ridgefield (65-26).

6B looks to extend its winning streak on Friday (2/1) when it travels to take on the Darien YMCA.  On Saturday, 6B hits the road again to meet Weston Gold before hosting Fairfield Hoops on Sunday.

Westport PAL 7G

2012-2013 PAL basketball's 7G

Following back to back victories last weekend, the Westport PAL 7G girls have moved into the top half of the FCBL A division at 9 wins and 5 losses.

7G started last weekend with a Friday night (1/25) victory over Monroe (38-22) before bucking recent Sunday difficulties to defeat the Darien YMCA.

7G gets a rare mid-season break this weekend, before heading back into action next Saturday (2/9) against Wilton.

Westport PAL 7B

FCBL B division leaders - Westport PAL 7B

With two more division wins last weekend, the Westport PAL 7B boys’ renaissance pushed 7B to first place in the FCBL B Jim Callahan division (9 wins and 2 losses).  With a single game this weekend, 7B looks to maintain its hold on first place in division while also getting to .500 overall for the first time this season.

7B extended its winning streak to five games on Friday evening (2/1), defeating Monroe (54-26).  On Sunday, 7B’s winning streak was put to the test against St. Theresa-Trumbull; however, in a defensive slug fest, 7B moved its winning streak to six games with a thrilling one-point victory (26-25).

With division and overall goals in mind, 7B takes on Redding-Easton this Friday evening (2/1) in its lone game of the weekend.

Westport PAL 8G

Coaches Sam DiLeo and Kasey Keegan have led the Westport PAL 8G ladies to an impressive record of 13 victories, 3 losses and 1 tie and the top half of the closely-contested FCBL B division.

8G had a single game last Friday evening (1/25), defeating division opponent Danbury (33-24).

8G goes outside the division for two games this weekend.  On Friday evening (2/1), 8G locks up with St. Mary’s-Ridgefield in Westport, before a trip on Saturday morning to take on Greenwich B&G Club.

Westport PAL 8B

In the midst of a losing streak, the Westport PAL 8B boys got back to better play and better results in 2 victories and 1 defeat last weekend.  While still down in the rankings of the competitive FCBL A division, two division games this weekend provide 8B with the opportunity to build momentum and move up.

8B broke its losing streak on Friday evening (1/25) in a victory over Wilton White (50-37).  Breaking recent trends, 8B took the lead in the opening quarter and never relinquished it against Wilton.  Ben Casparius led 8B with 20 points and 2 rebounds; however, the return of balance helped key the victory as seven 8B players scored between 2 and 6 points, eight players pulled at least one rebound and four players had steals.  In particular, strong contributions came from Sean Pritchett (3 points, 6 rounds and 1 steal), Ryan Fitton (6 points and 4 rebounds), Mack Muller (6 points and a team-high 9 rebounds) and Matty Fair (6 points and a rebound).

On Saturday and despite an early deficit, 8B kicked up its intensity against Weston Blue to take the lead by half time and hold it through the second half (31-20).  In the victory at Weston, 8B was led by Brendan Massoud (8 points, 4 rebounds, 1 blocked shot), Fritz Schemel (8 points and 1 steal), Matty Fair (4 points, 5 rebounds, 1 block and 1 steal), Josh Berman (2 points, 4 rebounds and 1 steal), Ryan Fitton (2 points, 2 rebounds and 1 steal), Kenny Brill (1 point, 3 rebounds, 3 steals and strong point-guard play) and Jesse Levinson (team-high 4 steals).

Later on Saturday, 8B looked to keep the streak going against season nemesis Shehan Center-Bridgeport.  Unfortunately, 8B’s penchant for early game deficits returned, leaving the squad behind by 7 after the first quarter before ultimately falling again to the talented squad from Bridgeport (30-49).  In the loss, 8B was led by Mack Muller (12 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals), Justin Seideman (10 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals), Ben Casparius (7 points and 5 rebounds) and Sean Pritchett (6 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block).

8B looks to build its resume’ in division when it hosts New Canaan on Friday evening (2/1) before traveling for a Super Bowl Sunday showdown with Darien YMCA.

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Winter cold off-set by hot hoops action as the Westport PAL travel basketball teams have moved into the second half of the FCBL season.  The impressive undefeated season of 5G and the strong recent performances of 7B highlight mid-season team reviews, including game results from January 11 through 20.

Westport PAL 5G

The Westport PAL 5G girls refuse to lose, remaining one of three undefeated teams in the twelve team FCBL B division.  In three recent victories, 5G raised its record to 13 wins and no losses.  5G defeated St. Mary’s-Ridgefield (23-9) and Fairfield PAL Lynx (17-7) utilizing Coach Karen Puskas’ active trapping 1-3-1 zone, before winning a low-scoring slugfest against Redding-Easton (18-16) last Saturday.

2012-2013 Westport PAL's 5G

5G puts its undefeated record to the test with three big games this weekend.  On Friday evening (1/25), 5G travels to take on fellow B division undefeated power house Shelton.  On Saturday, 5G will host Stamford Young Timers before traveling on Sunday to take on the other remaining undefeated, the Fairfield PAL Sun.

Westport PAL 5B

5B's Benny F. looks to score against Chelsea Piers-Stamford

The Westport PAL 5B boys are in the midst of a four-game winning streak, raising the team’s record to 9 wins and 4 losses.  5B’s up tempo offense and aggressive defense helped secure wins over Norwalk Youth (43-39), Hat City-Danbury (35-27), St. Theresa-Trumbull (41-36) and Chelsea Piers-Stamford (42-12).

5B will look to continue the momentum with three games this weekend.  On Saturday (1/26), 5B hits the road northwest for back-to-back games at Hat City-Danbury and at New Fairfield, before hosting the Darien YMCA on Sunday.

5B's Henry B. goes up among the Chelsea Piers-Stamford trees in recent action

Westport PAL 6G

The Westport PAL 6G girls have gotten a taste of the tough competition in the FCBL A division, staying above .500 on the season with 5 wins and 4 losses.  Coach Johanna McNelis has been preaching consistency to the players all season, as 6G has been unable to string together any winning streaks, but has also not suffered any long losing streaks.  Consistency of message has recently met with more consistent results.

6G lost to Norwalk Black on Saturday (1/12), but then followed that loss with consecutive victories over Shelton (19-12) and Trumbull Travel (30-17) last weekend for a first-time two-game winning streak.

6G looks to maintain consistency this weekend in two league games, traveling to St. Mary’s-Ridgefield on Saturday (1/26) before hosting Shelton on Sunday.

Westport PAL 6B

The Westport PAL 6B boys, like their 6G counterparts, have found the competition rugged in the FCBL A East division this season.  Coach Shuan Malone’s squad hits the homestretch of the regular season at 6 wins and 4 losses.

6B went 2-2 in recent results, defeating Greenwich Flame Red (57-44) and St. Theresa-Trumbull (41-35) while dropping tough games to Carver Center-Norwalk (41-46) and New haven (48-54).

6B looks to start a winning streak this weekend as it hosts Shelton on Saturday (1/26) and travels to St. Mary’s-Ridgefield on Sunday.

Westport PAL 7G

The Westport PAL 7G girls are in the thick of the FCBL A division at 7 wins and 5 losses.  Long-time PAL coach Chris Scholz has a deep roster and has been focusing on rotations and combinations of players as 7G gets ready for the end of the regular season.

Westport PAL's 2012-2013 7G

In recent games, 7G has been good on Fridays – defeating Newtown Gold (35-22) and Wilton White (45-33); however, unfortunately, Sundays have not been kind to 7G as it lost recent Sunday games to Newtown Blue (28-35) and Fairfield PAL Mercury (24-39).

7G looks to put together a complete weekend, as it hosts Monroe on Friday evening (1/25) before traveling to Darien on Sunday.

Westport PAL 7B

The Westport PAL 7B boys are the poster children for hard work and perseverance.  After beginning the season with a brutal schedule and disappointing results, the practice and teachings of Coaches Vinnie Rissolo and Andrew Strauss have taken hold and 7B has shot up the standings in the FCBL B division.  7B now sits in second place at 7 wins and 2 losses in division.

2012-2013 Westport PAL 7B

7B is currently on a four-game winning streak, having recently defeated Fairfield PAL Hawks (31-22), St. Mary’s-Ridgefield (30-17), New Fairfield (43-36) and Weston Gold (38-17).

7B looks to continue its winning streak and its climb up the standings as it hosts Monroe on Friday evening (1/25) and St. Theresa-Trumbull on Sunday.

Westport PAL 8G

Despite a short bench, made shorter by recent injuries and illnesses, the Westport PAL 8G ladies have continued to persevere, compiling a current record of 12 victories, 3 losses and 1 tie in the tightly-bunched FCBL B division.

8G's Mary McGee during 8G's recent victory over Darien

8G went 3-1 in recent action, defeating a scrappy Bridgeport Trumbull-Gardens squad (39-35), the Mohansic Girls (35-29) and Darien in a nail-biter (32-30) before losing to Waterbury North End (27-38) last Sunday (1/20).

8G's Claire Meehan leads the fast break against Darien YMCA

8G looks to get back in the win column with a single game in Westport against Danbury on Friday evening (1/25).

Westport PAL 8B (By: John Pritchett)

Dealing with adversity and disappointment is in the minds of Coach Glenn O’Neill’s Westport PAL 8B boys as they confront a four game losing streak that has dropped them in the standings of the FCBL A division.  Illnesses, injuries and absences are convenient excuses; however, more consistent effort, particularly to start games, along with more balance will be required in order to turn the tide as there are no easy games this season.

8B’s losing streak began earlier in January with back to back defeats at home to Danbury Blue and Mt. Vernon.

8B's Fritz "Schemel Swish" let's fly on one of his two 3-point bombs against Shehan Center-Bridgeport

The streak continued last Friday evening (1/18) in a return engagement against Bridgeport’s Sheehan Center.  After going down by more than 10 points in the first quarter, 8B fought back to just a two-point deficit at half time and took the lead by as many as 6 points in the third quarter.  In a hostile environment, the squad from Bridgeport showed its toughness, fought back and ultimately defeated 8B by 6 points (62-68).  In the loss, point guard Justin Seideman led 8B with 22 points and 4 steals.  Fritz Schemel helped 8B take its lead in the third quarter, connecting on consecutive three-point bombs to finish with 6 points.  Ryan Fitton and Mack Muller also chipped in with 6 points apiece, following by Sean Pritchett’s 5 points and Brendan Massoud’s 4 points.

8B looked to break the streak on the road last Sunday morning against the Greenwich Flame.  Once again, 8B confronted a hot start by an opponent as Greenwich got out to an early double digit lead.  This time, however, 8B was unable to close the gap as Greenwich never looked back.  A fourth quarter run by 8B triggered by its full court press helped close the gap to single digits, but 8B never got closer and suffered a fourth consecutive defeat (47-54).  In the loss, Ben Casparius led 8B with 19 points, 3 steals and 8 rebounds, assisted by Justin Seideman with 16 points and 7 rebounds.  Josh “Fletch” Berman nailed a pair of 3-point shots in the 3rd quarter to contribute 6 points and 2 steals.  Mack Muller (6), Matty Fair (5), Ryan Fitton (3) and Kenny Brill (2) pulled down many of 8B’s rebounds.

8B's Josh "Fletch" Berman holds the follow-through on one of his two 3-pointers against the Greenwich Flame

8B looks to turn things around this weekend, starting with a home game against Wilton on Friday evening (1/25).  8B finishes the weekend with a pair of Saturday games, traveling to meet Weston Blue in the morning and to Bridgeport in the afternoon for one last regular season crack at Shehan Center-Bridgeport.

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By: Contributing PAL Parents and Players

Holiday tournaments, some time off, and some back to school results highlighted the action for many of the Westport PAL travel basketball teams in games from mid-December through the first week of January 2013.

Westport PAL 5G (by: David Shorrock)

The Westport PAL 5G girls’ team started their travel basketball experience fast and has not let up, going undefeated (10-0) in 2012 and to begin 2013. 

Over the holidays, the girls defeated Fairfield PAL Lynx (12-5), New Canaan (21-8) and (iii) Trumbull Travel (30-6) before heading off to break.  5G stayed hot to begin 2013, defeating Trumbull Travel to being the year (38-6) and then traveling to and defeating talented Danbury (20-16).

5G has combined scoring punch from Abby C., Marisa S., Lucy P., Alex S. and Macey L, solid defense anchored by Nina U., Dawson N. and Samantha G, offensive and defensive rebounding from Grace C. and Arianna G., and timely contributions from Alyssa S. and Emily S.

5G looks to remain undefeated when it hosts St-Mary’s-Ridgefield on Saturday (1/12) before traveling to Fairfield on Sunday for a re-match with Fairfield PAL Lynx.

Westport PAL 5B

After starting the season with four consecutive victories, the Westport PAL 5B boys encountered several tough games over the holidays, losing consecutive games at New Canaan, at Norwalk and to Wilton.

2013 got 5B back on track with a victory over Westport YMCA on Saturday (1/5), before dropping a hard fought game in Ridgefield last Sunday.

5B will be hitting the practice floor as it awaits its next game a week from Sunday against Chelsea Piers Stamford.

Westport PAL 6G

The Westport PAL 6G girls enter 2013 in search of consistency after compiling a 3-3 record since the season began in November.  6G has followed each win with a loss, but has rebounded from each loss with a win.  The trend continued before the holidays, with a hard-fought victory at Ridgefield, followed by a loss at home to Norwalk Black . . . and after the holidays, with a victory at home over New Canaan last Saturday (1/5) followed by a tough loss in Bridgeport against Monroe last Sunday.

6G looks to break-out this weekend as it travels back to Norwalk on Saturday (1/12), before hosting Shelton on Sunday.

Westport PAL 6B

The Westport PAL 6B boys ended 2012 with a tough 8-point loss to Wilton; however, 2013 got off to a solid start as 6B hosted and defeated Norwalk Youth last Saturday (1/5) and traveled to and defeated Newtown Gold last Sunday.

6B starts a three-game weekend on Friday (1/11) in Greenwich, before hosting Norwalk on Saturday and traveling to St. Theresa-Trumbull on Sunday.

Westport PAL 7G (by: Maureen Schwab)

The Westport PAL 7G girls played three games before the holidays and two games after the break, going 3-2 in those five games.

7G observes a moment of silence in honor of the victims of the tragedy in Newtown

Before the break, 7G dropped tough games to Fairfield PAL Mercury and Darien YMCA, sandwiched around a 5-point victory over Bethel.  Following the break, 7G picked up two non-league victories over Orange (32-14)and Greenwich B&G Club (48-27) to run its overall record to 5 wins and 3 losses.    Against Orange last Friday night (1/4), Emily Yin lead the team out of the gate sinking multiple lay ups, while Brooke Schwab, Christine Taylor and Amanda Troelestra played aggressive defense, Megan Johnson and Annie Amacker had multiple steals and  Sophie Smith swished a three pointer.

7G takes on Newtown this weekend, hosting Newtown Gold on Friday evening (1/11) before traveling to and taking on Newtown Blue on Sunday.

Westport PAL 7B

Coaches Vinnie Rissolo and Andrew Strauss took advantage of the break to get the Westport PAL 7B boys playing better together, scheduling four games before the holidays and three games after the break.  The strategy and frequency of play paid off, with 7B going 3-4 in those games, including the squad’s first victories of the season.

7B defeated Norwalk Youth, Greenwich B7G Club and Brookfield, while dropping close contests to St. Theresa-Trumbull, Fairfield PAL Hoyas, Greenwich Flame and New Milford.

7B looks to get back into the win column this weekend when it hosts Fairfield PAL Hawks on Friday evening (1/11) and St. Mary’s-Ridgefield on Sunday.

Westport PAL 8G

The Westport PAL 8G ladies have continued to pile up victories; however, no basketball team can reasonably expect to go undefeated over the long grind of a 20+ game schedule and 8G was no exception, losing its first contests of the season.

After defeating the Mohansic Girls to get to 6 wins without a loss, 8G ran into a very talented St. Theresa-Trumbull squad, losing on Trumbull’s floor.  8G rebounded to defeat Fairfield PAL Liberty and to tie a gritty Bridgeport Trumbull Gardens squad in Bridgeport before the holidays.  Following the break, 8G defeated Stamford Young Timers before traveling to Ridgefield and dropping a close game against 8G’s longtime nemesis.

8G looks to get back to its winning ways when it hosts Bridgeport Trumbull Gardens this Friday (1/11) and then travels to Yorktown to take on Mohansic on Sunday.

Westport PAL 8B

Coach Glenn O’Neill and the Westport PAL 8B boys are learning that there are no easy games in the FCBL’s Boys 8 A division this season.  Consistently tough competition, along with unfortunate injuries and illnesses, have hurt 8B’s traditional balance – and some results; however, 8B has competed hard to reach 7 wins and 5 losses on the season.  8B played in four games before the break, including three games in the Billy Lovett “Rock the Bells” Holiday tournament in Bridgeport, along with three games to ring in 2013.

Westport PAL 8B's Ryan Fitton at the tip-off of recent action against Shehan Center-Bridgeport during the "Rock the Bells" holiday tournament

8B defeated New Canaan Black, Stamford Youth 8B and Wakeman-Fairfield, while dropping games to Fairfield Hoops, Shehan-Center-Bridgeport and New Haven.

Justin Seideman drives baseline in recent action against Shehan Center-Bridgeport during the "Rock the Bells" holiday tournament

8B looks to feast on some “home cooking” this weekend when it hosts perennial power Danbury on Friday evening (1/11) and Mt. Vernon on Sunday.

8B's Mack Muller drives against New Canaan during the "Rock the Bells" holiday tournament