The Potomac Highlands Dispatch - the online newspaper

Writer humbled, daughter inspired by Huskies' postseason tournament run
Nine-year-old Madison looks up to Northern Garrett squad

A letter by Katie (nee Spiker) Toothman
March 13 -- I just wanted to say the following and I tried to post it but it wouldn't let me on facebook. However, instead of saying OH forget it....I wanted to take the extra effort because these girls are owed that.

This year is the first year my daughter Madison (who is 9) has played basketball and the year ended with her wavering on if she wanted to play again. I don't know if you ALL realize the impact on lives that you've had over the last couple of months. I am proud/humbled that we have been able to watch an amazing group of girls locally play amazing ball.

She and her brother Jake have become "followers" of the team. From wearing "blue" to every game (even though their older brother plays for SHS basketball) to painting their face for games or wanting to head to all the games we could. Even going as far as convincing me to drive down this weekend to States.

I'd like to say, Thank you!! To the lady HUSKIES for showing my children what TRUE dedication, hours of sweat and a LOVE for a sport can accomplish. You ALL are a symbol of the word "team". Watching you all play has taught Madison and Jake things at a young age and has given Madison the desire to possibly keep playing ball.

Seeing what you all have accomplished has, at a young age, made a huge impact on them both.

She was able to watch how aggressive you all played and even took that to her Saturday games with her and whooped up on the boys that she played against. ;)

THANK you ALL for the great memories you helped make with my children and our time spent watching and cheering you all on. You have had a hand in cherished memories and laughter between my children and I. From the bottom of this momma's heart I say....THANKS- and thank you coaches....for coaching not just one player but an entire team.

I stood clapping tonight a proud Northern Alumi. Watching this year, for my family, has gone deeper then just watching some girls hitting the rim.

Katie (nee Spiker) Toothman

McHenry

The writer is a Northern Garrett High School graduate and mother of Madison and Jake. Madison and Jake look up to older brother, Alex Toothman, who plays basketball for Southern Garrett High School.