
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, March 29, 1992                   TAG: 9203290028
SECTION: SPORTS                    PAGE: C9   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

CIVIC CENTER FOLLOWING THE RULES

As a concerned taxpayer, I sure was glad to see the steps they're taking to save money in the county. After Northside won the Group AA Region III tournamentchampionship at the Salem Civic Center, a public servant, along with uniformed guards, encircled the goal where Jim Porter won the game with a last-second shot. Vikings coach Billy Pope's advance on the goal for the traditional cutting of the net was blocked by the civic center militia.

Immediately, the thrill of watching underdog Northside beat the No. 1 team, Laurel Park, was replaced with the pride of watching dedicated men protect precious government assets. After all, the $3 or so saved by not allowing the champs to cut down the net will go directly to the local government's bottom line.

On the other hand, though, there is something to be said for tradition. As long as I can remember, championship teams - especially underdogs - have been allowed the privilege of cutting the nets after their victory.

I certainly hope the powers that be take this into consideration the next time championship games are played at the Salem Civic Center. A happy medium between tradition and sound fiscal responsibility can be found, I'm sure. It would be better than coming off looking so ridiculously cheap.

BOBBY MYERS ROANOKE

\ EDITOR'S NOTE: Northside athletic director Jim Hickam, the director for the Region III basketball tournament, said Virginia High School League guidelines suggest that there be no cutting down of the nets. Region III chose to follow those guidelines. The Salem Civic Center was enforcing the Region III request.

by CNB