Saratoga Shows Some Spark

Cortland, New York. - With six hours of practice under their belts and hundreds more to follow, the early bird Saratoga Sparks took to the road this weekend and traveled south down Route 81 to SUNY Cortland to compete in the Cortland Shootout. The trip was scheduled early in the AAU season for a couple of important reasons. First, to see what this talented group of young players can do against quality competition, and to begin developing team chemistry.

“We could see very quickly during our first few practices that we have a very talented team, we are very strong and all thirteen kids can play, what we needed to see is how this group works together on the court, most of our players are playing together for the first time and are coming from different programs with different styles of play” shared Coach Fazio, “We need to figure out what this team can do together”

That opportunity presented itself quickly on Saturday afternoon when the Sparks tipped off against The Mystique from Montreal Canada. The Sparks played a very spirited first half but found themselves down by six at the half. It can be said that the Sparks executed both the offensive and defensive schemes that were introduced over the first two weeks of practice, however they were all execute at the same time, causing all sorts of confusion. Fortunately, to the french speaking Mystique and their faithful fans the confusion was never really noticed.

Ashley McCaughan lead the Sparks with thirteen points while converting seven of eight free throw attempts down the stretch to help the Sparks earn a well deserved come from behind 49-42 victory. Danielle Beauchamp chipped in nine points while Danielle Conley collected eight rebounds. The game was the first of the season and it proved that the young Sparks are resilient, athletic and eager to learn.

The second game of the tournament was an early evening meeting with RDP Jackson from Rochester New York. The Sparks battled throughout the game and once again displayed the talent that will soon become the backbone of one of the Capital Districts best teams.

Alexis Perryman lead a very balance scoring attack with seven points while Taylor Whyte provided six. Haley Van Orman collected five rebounds while pocketing three steals. Kelly Maher collected two steals and dished out one assist while grabbing two rebounds.

Once a Spark... Always a Spark...

"Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming."
John Wooden