Gaz’s Senior Night Tidbits & Pics

Who doesn't love senior night? Every year it is imperative that I attend. Missing it is out of the question,  especially this year. A victory was expected of course, and it came relatively easy against an over-matched Portland squad, but I wanted to be there this year even more than usual. After some self analysis I realized it was because of an insatiable desire to see the guys celebrate the return of the W.C.C. Championship Trophy to its rightful place. After having it for so many years it begins to feel as if it will always be ours. And, getting it back was wonderful.

I also enjoy seeing the seniors off, plain and simple. As a rabid fan I get a big kick out of feeling as if I am part of it. Being there in person, to enjoy seniors Mike Hart, Guy Edi, Elias Harris, and potentially Kelly Olynyk, perform in their last collegiate game in the Kennel is special. I also knew there would be the usual cutting down of the net,  senior night speeches, the hoisting of the W.C.C. Conference Championship Trophy, and even a speech by coach Few. If you have never been, I suggest you give it a try. (click "read more" right below to continue article and see pics)

Senior night we always arrive at least an hour early so we can watch the pregame warm-ups. Getting a carved roast beef sandwich and a coke is always a must. I wander around visiting with various people I've met over the years and talk shop. We relive the season and dream of what is still potentially to come. I stare up at the rafters and gaze with amazement at the banners. Some proclaiming Sweet 16. There is even an Elite 8. As game-time approaches I am reminded that this is indeed a very special place.

There is so much going on I get easily distracted for much of the actual game itself, but not to worry, I know it is being DVR’ed for later perusing in solitude and without interruptions. I remind myself to take it all in. Coach Few said in his speech to "Enjoy this." And, I did.

The seat location was pretty good. We had seats in the end zone, 5 rows off the floor. Not being familiar with this particular locale I quickly introduced my self all around. As usual, the fans were in great spirits, excited, and there was that magical buzz in the air, which always seems to be present in the Kennel. This particular game I sat next to, and met a very nice fellow by the name of Steve Robinson. He is a Moderator on GU Boards aka- as GoZags. He knew his stuff about the Zags and we bandied back and forth from time to time. I couldn't say if I yelled and clapped louder, or he…so in the interest of good sportsmanship we’ll just call it a draw. *A visit to the site at GUboards.com is a must for Zag fans.

It was another terrific game by the Zags, who got off to a fast start and led the entire way. The crowd was really into it, the Kennel Club was on point, in costumes, face paint, waving signs, helping to intimidate the opponents. Additionally, there was the added excitement of knowing that a victory would mean Gonzaga would become #1 in the Nation when the polls came out on Monday.

What a night, what a season (so far), what a team...What a #1 team!

Ok, time to throw up some pictures before I become misty eyed. 

Here goes-        

Pangos practices a shot from the corner:

Bell for threeeee!:

Kennel Club goes crazy:

KO & Harris plan their strategy as Karno readys a three from the corner:

The team huddles with one minute until tip-off: 

The Kennel Club flashes the Hart sign: 

Spike in the house: 

Historic banners of yore: 

Assorted signs for Hart, Elias, and Guy: 

Hart merits his own T-shirts, who'da thought?:

Bell signs:

One more time:

Barham up close: 

Draino: 

Hart signs:

Our glue guy Hart:

Guy, with our future BIG and secret weapon, 12 year old Alex:

Rollin on E in the Kennel for the last time....now I'm sad: