Gaters Celebrate State Championships

June 22, 2004

The States Largest Boys AAU Program celebrated their success with a mini State Championship Awards Ceremony in Greensboro. The 10U, 12U, 13U and 17U Gater Blue teams won the State Division I AAU Titles. "These four teams have a combined record of 156-12", says Vic Sapp, Gaters President. During the ceremony Coach Fran McCaffrey, the Head Mens Basketball Coach at UNCG spoke to the players about the new NCAA Academic requirements and what it means to them. "Every player in this room will play college basketball at some level, because you are part of this organization," says McCaffrey. "Its important to be aware of what's required to be eligible, McCaffrey says. The teams enjoyed each others company during dinner and then the awards began. Coach Ren Stewart was the Master of Ceremonies and he spoke about each teams accomplishments. Each player was recognized and received an embossed State Championship watch and T-Shirt. "This was a mini ceremony to recognize their hard work, it will not take the place of our annual awards ceremony, "says Sapp. Coach Roy Williams was the guest speaker last fall. Sapp closed the ceremony wishing all the teams a safe and successful National Championship summer. The Gaters have 17 teams playing in AAU National Championships over the summer.