MONTPELIER – Last month, the Hazen Union girls and boys basketball teams were both crowned Division III State Champions in the same season for the first time in school history. Last week, they became a permanent part of Vermont history at the State Capitol.
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Vermont House Representative for Caledonia 2-District Mike Southworth submitted House Resolutions on behalf of Hazen Union’s Girls and Boys Basketball Championship Teams last Friday in Montpelier. Both Wildcat and Lady Cat teams, coaching staffs and contributors were congratulated by Governor Phil Scott and the General Assembly. The resolution was resolved by the Vermont Senate and House. Copies of the Congratulatory Resolutions (HCR248 and HCR249) will be sent to Hazen Union High School by the Vermont Secretary of State.
Head coach Randy Lumsden led the Lady Cats to their second state title in the last three seasons with a 55-53 overtime thriller over Windsor on March 7. Junior Kelsie Rivard (30 points, 24 rebounds) sent the game into overtime with a clutch free throw at the end of regulation before draining two more at the end of overtime to seal the game. Head coach Aaron Hill’s Wildcats claimed their second state title in five seasons with an emphatic 66-49 victory over top-seeded Randolph on March 14. Senior Sully Laflam saved his best game for last, pouring in a season high 22 points in the win.
Rep. Southworth, a Walden resident for nearly 30 years, is the father of the late Tristan Southworth. The former Hazen Union multi-sport star gave his life for his country in 2010 serving for the Vermont National Guard in Afghanistan. The Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient was known for his character, leadership and selflessness. The Tristan Southworth Memorial Scholarship is given out at the end of every season by the Vermont Basketball Coaches Association. Lamoille’s Alana Crittenden received the honor this past season.
Watch the House Session from April 17 on the Vermont House of Representatives YouTube channel, @VTHouseOfReps.
