A Historic Journey: The Port Washington Vikings’ Quest for Glory

Breaking a 78-Year Drought

The Port Washington Vikings boys basketball team has endured a 78-year championship drought, with their last Nassau County title dating back to 1947. However, the energy and determination of this year’s squad are redefining the narrative. As the top-seeded Vikings prepare for their third consecutive appearance in the AAA title game, the stakes are higher than ever. After falling short in the previous two finals, this team is on a mission to make history and bring home the elusive championship. Their opponent, the second-seeded East Meadow Jets, will provide fierce competition in the highly anticipated matchup at Farmingdale State College. Coach Sean Dooley, who has been instrumental in shaping the team’s mindset, emphasized that this game isn’t just about ending the drought but about completing unfinished business. For him, it’s less about the historical significance and more about the players’ unwavering drive to succeed.

A Brotherhood on and Off the Court

The Vikings are a tight-knit group, with many seniors having played varsity basketball since their sophomore year. Their journey has been marked by heartbreaking losses, and the pain of coming so close to victory only to fall short has fueled their determination. “It would be nice to finally get it done now,” said senior shooting guard Kenny Daly. “It’s so fresh in everybody’s head.” The team’s camaraderie is a key factor in their success. From spirited bus rides after wins to bonding over deli trips after Saturday morning practices, these players have forged unbreakable bonds. Their shared experiences have created a sense of brotherhood that extends beyond the court. Coach Dooley proudly describes the team as “15 guys who all get along and support each other,” adding that every player genuinely roots for their teammates’ success.

Energy and Passion: The Viking Way

Energy is at the core of the Vikings’ identity. During a recent practice, the intensity was palpable, with even sideline players cheering on their teammates at fever pitch. Coach Dooley, who was named Nassau’s AAA-2 Coach of the Year and the 2023 New York State Coach of the Year, stresses the importance of passion and focus. “Energy is something you can control,” said senior point guard Kenny Reyes. “It’s much more fun to play the game with spirit.” This mindset was evident in a recent game against Chaminade, where a sluggish start prompted Dooley to call a timeout and rally his team. The result? A dominant 66-46 victory. Dooley takes pride in never having to ask for effort, as his players consistently bring their A-game.

A Legacy Beyond the Game

For the Vikings, this championship is about more than just winning a title. It’s about representing their town, their school, and the generations of players who came before them. “Winning it for this whole town and our teammates who graduated, after all the support they’ve shown us the past three years, that would be the best moment for me,” said forward Ryan Shanahan. The team is also motivated by the desire to extend their time together. Dooley explained, “The next time we lose is the last time we get together—and we don’t want to stop getting together.” This sentiment reflects the deep connection the players and coaching staff share, a bond that transcends basketball.

East Meadow: A Formidable Foe

The Vikings’ opponent, the East Meadow Jets, presents a significant challenge. With a 19-3 record, the Jets have been on a tear since losing to Port Washington in December. They avenged that loss in January with a 57-47 victory, which also marked the Vikings’ most recent defeat. Like Port Washington, East Meadow is chasing history, as the 68-year-old school has never won a county title. Coach Tom Rottkamp describes his team as a “band of brothers,” with six seniors who have played together since sixth grade. The Jets’ focus on fundamentals and teamwork makes them a dangerous opponent. While both teams share mutual respect, the Vikings are well aware of the battle ahead. “They’re a really good team,” Shanahan said. “We know we’re gonna have to battle a full 32 minutes on Saturday.”

The Stage is Set for a Thrilling Finale

As Saturday’s championship game approaches, the Vikings are ready to leave everything on the court. With their 18-4 record and a season defined by resilience and unity, they are determined to write a new chapter in their school’s history. Meanwhile, the Jets are equally hungry for their first title, adding layers of drama to the showdown. The game is more than just a high school basketball finale—it’s a clash of two teams with a shared goal: to etch their names in the record books. The Vikings’ journey, marked by perseverance and camaraderie, serves as a reminder that sports are about more than wins and losses. They are about the bonds we forge, the lessons we learn, and the memories we create along the way.

As the buzzer prepares to sound on this historic season, one thing is clear: the Port Washington Vikings are ready to give it their all and make this a season to remember. Win or lose, their legacy is already cemented in the hearts of their community. But for now, the focus is on one thing: finishing the job.