Random Thoughts: big loss, girls hoops

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor

This week’s Random Thoughts center around the loss of a friend, a stunning rally, girls basketball and the NFL.

A big loss

I can’t believe I’m writing this.

With the passing of Aaron Matthews, the area has lost a true friend to the local sports scene. He was just 43 years old.

Aaron was one of a kind – a great television and radio broadcaster who was very versatile. He could cover any sport with ease. More importantly though, he was a friend to anyone and everyone, just one of those guys who was likable and so easy to get along with, and his sense of humor was unmatched.

RIP Aaron. You were a great broadcaster and an even better person.

What a game

In some respects, it seems wrong to write about anything else, but I’m sure Aaron would admonish me if I didn’t, so here goes.

What a finish to Saturday’s Van Wert-Wayne Trace boys basketball.

I’ve covered high school sports for a long time and that was one of the most stunning rallies I’ve seen firsthand.

If you somehow missed it, Van Wert was down 26-6 in the second quarter but came back to win 56-55. If you’re a Cougar fan there’s plenty of credit to go around, but it was Aidan Pratt’s steal of an inbound pass, layup and ensuing foul shot with 1.3 seconds left that won it.

It was an amazing win. As for Wayne Trace, I’m sure the Raiders will rebound nicely. That’s a very good basketball team.

Van Wert Lady Cougars

Don’t look now but the Van Wert Lady Cougars have won five straight games. They’ll try to keep that streak going next Tuesday against Delphos Jefferson and Thursday against Lincolnview.

It’s a fun time for the Lady Cougars.

More girls hoops

Speaking of fun times, it’s certainly been fun for Crestview and Lincolnview as well. The Lady Knights are 9-0 and the Lady Lancers have forged a 5-3 start.

NFL

Something tells me if the Browns were the only team that had COVID problems this past weekend, the NFL would have basically told them too bad, play anyway.

When the bigger TV market teams – L.A., Washington DC and Philadelphia had COVID problems, the NFL had no choice but to postpone games.

If you have thoughts on any of the above subjects, feel free to email me at sports@thevwindependent.com.