The sixth officiating assignment at Hamilton Park and it's the first time out for yours truly on the outdoor courts.Three games are on tap. The first two were grammar school with a high school contest wrapping things up. The court is in HamiltonPark which is located three blocks from the Holland Tunnel and close to St. Anthony's High School.

The Scores :

St. Michael's                          60                                   Bayonne                           40

Holy Trinity CYO                   36                                    Jersey City Boy's Club             24

Dickinson HS                        53                                  Snyder HS                           44

     St. Michael's was very impressive with their three point shooting and their ability to look for each other. The team chemistry is outstanding. "They have been playing together about three years," said Carlos Cuerto a basketball skills instructor very familiar with the program. Cuerto, in fact, is a former St.Anthony's star who played his college ball at Richmond.

     League director and officiating coordinator Pat Devaney reminds us the players must have their shirts tucked in. Pat also points out s player with an ornamental wristband. "you are a veteran (official), didn't you notice that ? ," Pat says in a light hearted tone. I point out that in basketball coaches should send their players on the floor properly equipped to play a game.  In girls lacrosse we have a stick check and look closely for jewelery. That is a different situation. Again, we are watchful in basketball but entrust the coaches to ensure their players are properly equipped. Guess , at times, that is asking a lot.

    Before leaving, watched a bit of the fourth game of the night (six were on tap). Two undefeated teams, St.Anthony's and Newark Tech were squaring off. At the quarter St.Anthony's enjoyed a thirteen point lead. The Friars are going to be a very tough out in this competitive circuit. 

     Crowd was pretty good at Hamilton Park. A Friday evening to start the Fourth of July weekend didn't hurt. League does draw better here between the regulars and interested passersby strolling through the park. League play resumes on Tuesday.

    Dickinson has a young team but has three wins early in the season. Coach Sean Drennan expected the competitive summer league to be a 'learning experience'. Nothing wrong with getting some wins while your kids learn.