NewCanaanite.com recently received the following letter. Send letters to editor@newcanaanite.com to have them published here.
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NCHS bench during the CIAC quarterfinals. Credit: Terry Dinan
On behalf of the New Canaan Athletic Alumni Association (formerly the New Canaan Old Timers Association) and local sports fans, I would like to congratulate the New Canaan High School varsity basketball team and coaching staff on their remarkable and unforgettable run in the CIAC Division II state playoffs.
This team exemplified everything that makes high school sports special—teamwork, dedication and selflessness. Peaking at the right time, the Rams delivered two thrilling victories — a dramatic second-round win over Platt followed by an incredible double-overtime battle against Maloney in the quarterfinals. That Maloney game may have been one of the most exciting and intense high school basketball games I have ever witnessed.
Although the Rams fell short in the semifinals against an outstanding Windsor team, their run was a joy to watch. For many of us NCHS alums, it also brought back memories of the legendary 1988-89 team whose Cinderella run evoked the spirit of the Hickory Huskers of Hoosiers fame. Like this year’s team, they fell a little short—but remain unforgettable more than 35 years later.
I have no doubt that the 2025–26 Rams will be remembered in much the same way.
Congratulations to head coach Danny Melzer, his staff and the entire team — and thank you for making us “Old Timers” feel young again.
Terry Dinan
VP, New Canaan Athletic Alumni Association