Conestoga’s valiant effort to overcome a 20-4 deficit proved too much as the Pioneers’ most successful season in decades came to an end at the hands of Hazelton, 60-54, in the 6A Sweet Sixteen matchup.

Conestoga fought to the end, closing the gap to 5 points in the second half before running out of time.

The Pioneers, district champions for the first time in 38 years, finished the year with a 22-7 record and the future looks bright for coach Sean Forcine’s program with several key players returning. 

Junior Shane O`Brien shined in defeat, sinking five 3-point shots and finishing with 24 points. Cory Hogan, another 11th grader, added 13 points. Seniors Ben Robinson and Sam Gibbs had their farewell appearance in a maroon and white uniforms scoring 11 points and 3 points respectively. Seniors Angelo Bertolotti, Braden Weinberg, Brooks Havey, and Wade Bielinski also suited up for the last time for Conestoga.

Others back include junior point guard Rowan Miller and sophomores Sunny Tummala and 6-5 Luke Hunter. 

Forcine provided some closing remarks on the season.  “We didn’t finish how we wanted, but it doesn’t take anything away from what our team of 21 (coaches, players, and managers) was able to accomplish.  We’ll be remembered for history at Conestoga and will be celebrated rightfully so.    

“I am proud of each one of our guys doing their unselfish part, coming together making the team dynamic so strong.  They deserve to be celebrated for the rest of their lives as a group of 21 who’ve done something historic for our school and our community.  For future and past generations.”