Marple's Hometown Monthly Magazine
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Local Teams, Lasting Bonds and Championship Seasons

Marple Friends & Neighbors, June 2026

Two Marple Newtown travel basketball teams delivered remarkable seasons this year, each defined not only by wins but by a shared commitment to teamwork and resilience.

The sixth-grade girls’ team brought together a group of players who spent most of the year competing against one another on their respective school teams. When they joined forces for a six- week travel season, they quickly formed a cohesive unit built on toughness and unselfish play. A coach once described their defense as relentless, a word that became their identity. That mindset powered the team to a perfect 20-0 record. Along the way, they
captured tournament titles at Twin Valley, Spring Ford and Great Valley, including a statement win over defending state champion Main Line. At the state tournament, they battled through a deep and talented 16-team field, ultimately defeating Main Line and Whitpain in back-to-back games to secure the championship.

The success continued with the fourth-grade MN Spartans, who have been dominant since forming in the fall of 2024. Representing Saint Anastasia Parish, the Spartans made an immediate impact by winning the ICBA Queen of the Court tournament. Over two seasons, they compiled a flawless 35-0 record while winning eight tournaments. Their season culminated at Penn State, where they defeated Council Rock 29-9 to claim the state title.

What stands out about both teams is not just their undefeated records, but how they achieved them. Players from different schools came together, formed lasting friendships and embraced a team-first mentality. Their success is a reflection of hard work, selflessness and a genuine love of the game.