New London Seniors Have A Milestone Week
New London’s Leah Porath and Scott Cook both made history at home. Porath became the third New London Girls Basketball player to reach 1000 career points. Cook became the New London Wrestling All-Time win leader with a Championship win at the Cutler Classic.
LEAH BECOMES NUMBER THREE TO REACH 1,000
Leah scored a career-high 32 points in her team’s 69-30 win over Green Bay East on Thursday, which also pushed her past the 1,000-point total in her career. Porath is just the third player to do so in New London girls basketball history, joining Tracy Palmer and Tara Knapstein.
“The first two people to do it were outstanding players so it is an honor to join them” said Porath.
With New London playing their next two games on the road, it was important for Porath and the team to be able to do it in front of the hometown fans and and Porath’s family in attendance.
“I had a lot of support and I knew it would be a stretch, but I wanted to do it at home.”
When the night started, Porath would need 31 points, a total she had not yet reached in a single game during her impressive career. After a 16-point first half and a few early second half buckets, she knew the goal was attainable that night and she credits her teammates who were with her every step of the way.
“That was much better than just experiencing it alone. They fully supported me and were a big part of me making this achievement.”
Porath now sets her sights on becoming the school’s second-leading scorer when the season concludes.
SCOTT COOK GETS ALL TIME WIN RECORD
When former New London Wrestler Mike Murphy handed Scott Cook his medal and wall bracket for winning the Cutler Classic, he also handed off an honor that he has had since the mid 2000’s. Scott Cook’s win in the tournament finals made him the all-time win leader in New London, breaking Murphy’s mark. Murphy was on hand as part of New London wrestling alumni who were invited to celebrate the 50th annual Cutler Classic, but got to do more than that. Cook, a three time State qualifier has his sights set on Madison again this year, but said the record means a lot, and doing it at home was even better.
“It is the last time I get to compete in this Tournament, so it makes it special” said Cook. “I always wanted my name on the board, and now I have it.”
Cook says his focus is on the rest of season.
“Keep training, keep working hard, and achieve more of my goals” said Cook.
The New London record was at 126 wins.