The Titans have enjoyed one of their most successful seasons under head coach Matt Mader, racking up their 16th victory Saturday over New Boston. While the win was another stepping stone in helping Notre Dame secure a No. 3 seed in the Division IV postseason tournament, it was also a legacy defining victory.
With the 52-37 home win over the Tigers, Mader picked up his 100th-career victory.
Mader knew the milestone was approaching and tried to keep it a secret, but to no avail. After the game was over, Notre Dame principal Kathy Milligan spoke with the public-address announcer, and the Titan fans were told to remain in the stands. The Players and coaches went to center court, where a presentation ensued to honor Mader.
“At that point, I knew that everybody else knew,” Mader said. “I was trying to hide it from everybody but I didn’t do a very good job. They did do a nice presentation for the crowd. It was exciting to see that many people excited about Notre Dame basketball.”
Mader, who has coached the Titans for the past seven seasons, spent a few moments embracing his family after the game.
“I would like to thank my wife, Mary Beth, and my family for their support over the last seven years and the sacrifices they have made in order for me to do something that I love to do,” Mader said.
“Looking back through the years at all of the time and effort that you go through, and all of the support my family as given me, I’m blessed to have coached this long.”
Most of his success he attributes to his players and assistant coaches.
“It’s no secret that you win with good people and players,” Mader said. “I have been very fortunate to have had both. We have had so many players and coaches dedicate their time over the last seven years into making Notre Dame basketball meaningful.
“It’s a true testament to these players and assistant coaches that have put the hard work in — day in and day out — to be successful. I’m so proud of each and every one of them. The 100 wins is not about me but rather about our program, and what our past and present teams have been able to do on and off the basketball court.”
Even though he’s grateful for reaching a career goal, Mader said he’s focused on the task at hand, rather than relishing in his past achievements. The Titans are 16-4 and earned a No. 3 seed, which means they are one win away from playing at the Convocaton Center in Athens.
Every high-school basketball team in the state of Ohio aspires to play at the Convo and Notre Dame has a legitimate opportunity to reach those goals and add a few more wins on Mader’s resume.
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