It was quite a night for the Dunkirk Marauders boys basketball team on Tuesday. Not only did the group get an exciting win over Southwestern in overtime, an important figure in the area’s hoop history was honored.

In a pregame ceremony, Coach Sixto Rosario was saluted for his dedication to the sport and its youth. “This coach has dedicated over 15 years of his time and effort to the youth in Chautauqua County. His dedication to the basketball program in this community has inspired hundreds of boys and girls over the years,” Dunkirk Marauders Sports Boosters President Denise Zentz said before the game.

Zentz then addressed Rosario, stating, “After thousands of hours spent practicing at ‘the Sal’ and hundreds of miles traveled to tournaments and league games, your lessons of hard work, your passion for the sport and your commitment to our teams have been nothing short of inspiring. Thank you for pushing us to be the best we can be and believing in us when we doubted ourselves.”

Rosario received a plaque and was pictured with the team before tip-off. The win on the home court sealed a memorable evening.