Alumni game brings together 2 great LT teams
By Ken Ryan Contributor February 6, 2012 9:54PM
Mark Wojtowicz puts back a rebound in an alumni basketball game on Feb. 4. | Rob Hart-Sun-Times Media
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Updated: March 10, 2012 8:24AM
Growing up, A.J. Allodi idolized the Lyons Township boys basketball team that placed third at State in 1994.
He yearned to enjoy that kind of success when he played for the Lions and feels fortunate that he was able to help LT capture fourth at State in 2001.
“We looked up to their team and then being able to kind of do the same thing they did in high school was great,” said Allodi, who was among the many former players to suit up for Saturday’s alumni game at LT’s North Campus between the two standout teams from the past. “It was nice to get back out there. I still see a lot of the guys from our team, but we haven’t seen the older guys in a while. It was good to see old faces and be on the court again. High school sports are one of those things you never forget and this brought back a lot of good memories.”
While the game was a friendly rivalry, the competitiveness that made both teams successful during their glory days was evident.
There were lead changes throughout before the 2001 squad eventually pulled out a 64-58 victory.
“We love that they waited maybe 10 years too late to play us,” joked Steve Davis, who starred for LT’s 1994 state team. “That’s my excuse right now. We wanted to win, there’s no doubt. We really put our hearts into it as much as we could. It was a lot of fun and it was good to see everyone. We weren’t sure our old bodies could hold up, but I think we did all right. We had some practice time and felt comfortable enough to come out here and at least give an effort.”
One person who was certainly impressed by what he witnessed, was former longtime LT coach Ron Nikcevich, who retired after LT’s state run in 1994.
Nikcevich won 562 games during his 33-year coaching career, which included a stint at Riverside-Brookfield, and also guided the Lions to a state championship in his first season in 1970 with a 31-0 record.
“It’s really great to see the guys,” Nikcevich said. “They’re in great condition and know what they’re doing. They play very well together. They’re as unselfish today as they were that many years ago and that’s what made them so successful. You look back on the kids and how good they look now and how successful and gentlemanly they are, it’s a credit to their families and themselves. It’s fun to watch them play.”
Members of the 1994 squad, which finished 28-5 that season, that participated Saturday were Graham Alexa, Dennis Carroll, Davis, Mike Green, Dan Grzybek, Andy Hettinga, Steve Liedtke, Mike Warkentien, Mark Wojtowitz and David Yates.
Davis, Carroll and Alexa each had 13 points in the loss, which didn’t diminish the experience.
“Each and every one of us had stories about the past,” Davis said. “It was good to see Coach Nikcevich and all the coaches out here. It was fun reminiscing and catching up on old times.”
Players participating from the 2001 team, which also finished 28-5 back in the day, included Allodi, Rich Chaput, Erik Gardstrom, Chris Green, Bill Kluber, Adam Lynch, Jim Maley, Kyle Nelson, Brad Poetter, Brian Poetter and Tom Scavuzzo. Conte Stamas, who was the head coach in 2001, wasn’t in attendance.
Gardstrom had 24 points, nine rebounds and also came up with a key block and took a charge in the final minute to help preserve the victory.
“It’s wonderful to get the opportunity to come back and play on this court again,” Gardstrom said. “It brings back a lot of great high school memories. There is still a group of us that play together on a weekly basis. We’ve played together for probably the last six years after college, so we’re familiar with what we’re all capable of doing. We play our role just like when we were in high school and it seemed to work. It was fun to have your family and friends come see you play one last time.”
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