Bonas is going to the big dance

St. Bonaventure University's men and women's basketball teams are going to the NCAA tourney. 126 other teams are also excited to be going. Of those, many were expected to go. St. Bonaventure Women's team ended up 16th in the nation and were assured of getting an at large bid. The didn't have to win their conference in order to go. The men on the other hand could only go if they won their tournament. And they won. This is a BIG deal not only for the team and the school, this is a big deal for the fans in the Olean/Allegany area. This area of the country has been hit hard by the tough economy. For the fans, this is huge. This is a town that needs a victory. They need something to cheer about. And cheer they did. Earlier today the men's team departed for the tournament. Over 1000 fans lined the streets, the team was escorted through town by a fire truck and police escorts. The sirens were loud  but the fans were louder. School children held signs "Go Bonnies" and balloons lined the streets. This will be repeated on Thursday as the Women's team makes their way through town. No one knows if this send off will stick in the minds of the players and boost them to a victory. But the smiles on the faces of the players meant so much. The got it...they know this is BIG not just to them but to the community.