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By Ron P. Coderre
A raucous somewhat chaotic gymnasium filled to capacity with 150 students, teachers, family, friends and supporters greeted the 2012 edition of the Putnam Science Academy basketball Mustangs as they unofficially tapped the season with Mustang Madness. The evening was filled with entertainment and some serious basketball.
The evening opened with individual introduction of the players, who entered the gym to the music of DJ Colt “45” Foley and the booming voice of emcee Chris Coderre. Following introductions of the coaching staff, coach Tom Espinosa addressed the student body and fans with words of thanks. He recognized the 13 members of this season’s team as a “special group” and ‘hard working” players.
The festivities then turned their attention to center court where Dayshon Smith, surrounded by principal Dr. Emrullah Durmaz, coach Espinosa, Dean of Academics Serdar Haytiyes and College Counselor Celal, Aydar signed his official National Letter of Intent committing to play at the University of Dayton.
The evening also included a “three-point” shooting contest involving players, faculty and students. A first ever student “dance contest” set the stage for a brief scrimmage featuring two units, the Black squad versus the Gray squad.
“Mustang Madness brought our student body together. It was fun and we’re ready to root our team on for the upcoming season,” said Omer Seven, student body leader.
Following the one-hour program the fans and players retired to the school cafeteria for refreshments and an opportunity to meet the players.
“I consider our first Mustang Madness a huge success. It accomplished just what we were hoping. It got the team and the entire audience involved. The spirit of the crowd got the competitive juices flowing on a high note as we prepare to kickoff the season,” said Espinosa.