By Steve Keenan
For The Register-Herald
OAK HILL —
The Red Devils did yeoman’s work last week, and they were rewarded with a big party Monday afternoon.
The Oak Hill High School student body, staff and community paid homage to the Red Devils’ third basketball state championship with a special ceremony in the Lilly Center, named for Jim Lilly, who coached the first two title squads (1984 and 1989 in Class AAA).
Oak Hill left Charleston with the Class AA trophy Saturday after posting a thrilling 55-45 defeat of rival Wyoming East.
During his remarks, coach Fred Ferri Jr. introduced the 2010 squad’s three seniors — Steven Garris, Dustin Nuckels and Jeff Lilly.
“They’re very special and we’re gonna miss ’em. ... Even though you don’t see these guys on the court much, they are invaluable. We couldn’t do it without them,” Ferri said. “You especially have to have them when I get mad and bench someone.”
The coach explained the myriad reasons for Oak Hill’s success.
“We lift weights in the summer. We play in summer leagues,” he said. “Practice doesn’t start until November, but these guys start working in the summer and it’s paid off for them.
“You win because you’re good and you win because you work really hard. It was a long season, but on Saturday, it all paid off.”
Ferri also paid tribute to the Oak Hill cheerleaders and fans, as the school also won best cheering section this past weekend. “We have the best basketball team in the state and we have the best students in the state and I thank you for that.”
Oak Hill city officials, county school system officials and state representatives were among those present for the ceremony. A congratulatory letter from Fayetteville Mayor Jim Akers read, in part, “You have not only made the school proud, you have made the entire county proud.”
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