---

Some things are worth commenting on after the fact.
Fact one:
Two weeks ago I saw a very dejected Heritage Christian team walk off the floor seeing their hopes of a second Division 5 state championship dashed by Barneveld. They walked off the floor without receiving their medals and without watching Barneveld receive their awards and wishing them well as the new sectional champions.
As I thought about it I came to the conclusion that the girls who played the game were not to blame for the lack of class and respect. After all, they are only 15-18 year old kids who, like all kids, need healthy role models.
I blame the coach. The person in charge. The person who is supposed to set the example. The person who is supposed to guide the young kids he coaches into adulthood.
I give his performance an F.
Fact two:
The Barneveld team went on to beat the only undefeated team in the state in their first game of the state tournament, earning them a chance for a gold or silver ball. Gold goes to the state champion and silver to the runner up.
Barneveld lost to Wisconsin Rapids Assumption in the title game by four points. They had the game tied in the fourth quarter but could not get fate to turn their way.
After the game the girls received their medals. There were some tears and there were some smiles, both genuine shows of emotion. When they received the silver ball they lifted it high to show the fans they appreciated their support all the way to the final game anyone in the state would play this year.
They also watched with respect when Assumption received the state championship awards.
Barneveld coach Jim Myers is a coaching legend for girls basketball in Wisconsin. We have covered him for his over 600 wins and over 100 losses. The important thing is he is just as gracious after the losses as he is after the wins. He is a class act and that is transferred to the girls he coaches.
They are also class acts.
It was a wonderful season for the Golden Eagles, one that will be remembered.
Ending it with class is how you always want to be remembered.
Well done, Jim and the Golden Eagles.