On Saturday, December 2nd, 2023, the West Jefferson’s 1974 Boys Basketball Team was honored at a special team dinner and pregame festivities at West Jefferson High School. This year’s head basketball coach, Kelvin Krosch, wanted to kick off the season with a program to honor the 50th anniversary team. The 1974 team and Coach Jon Wilson were invited to come and celebrate with this year's basketball teams. The boys asked questions about what went into winning a state championship. The 1974 team answered and shared their thoughts. Gary Skidmore emceed and shared facts about each player. Coach Krosch emphasized that this year's team is “not running away from the legacy, but running towards it!”
Coach Jon Wilson was planning to attend the event, but due to bad weather and canceled flights, was not able to come in person. A large TV was set up in the gym and over Zoom, Coach Wilson joined the party. Each 1974 team member took a few minutes to individually visit with Coach Wilson. He asked them each to answer a few questions about their families, and where life has taken them.
The only member of the team that was not able to attend the dinner was Blake Berrett who passed away many years ago. The ‘74 Team members said he was a very important part of their team and they all miss him.
Many people helped to make this night special. Paul Phillips (1974 team manager) designed and made wood “trophies” for each team member and coach. Bob Niederer brought their State Medals to display. A basketball was brought for all of the team members to sign and it will be placed in the school trophy case next to their trophy draped with the net that was cut down after the big win. “Legacy Team” hats and shirts with their last name and jersey number were given to each Team Member. They were also given a booklet with newspaper clippings from their winning year and an audio recording of their championship game.
After the team dinner, there was a meet and greet where family, friends, and fans were able to come and visit. Many past and present community members showed up in support.
Before the Varsity game, the Legacy Team of 1974 came out on the court to be recognized by the community. They received a standing ovation.
1973-74 Championship Team Members:
Coach Jon Wilson
Kurt Bare
Blake Berrett
Eldon Berrett
Rick Berrett
Kent Bird
Richard Chase
Kevin Chastain
Dallas Furness
Steve Hobley
Bob Niederer
Lynn Shuldberg
Parker Wadsworth
Paul Phillips - Manager
Thank you to all those who helped to make this such a wonderful event!