The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton is proud to celebrate a historic achievement as our Middle School Girls Basketball Team captured the league championship on Saturday morning, completing a perfect 15–0 undefeated season.
The championship game, held at Tenafly Middle School, marks a significant milestone for our athletics program. Coached by Club alumni, the team displayed exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Their victory brings home our first championship trophy in a decade and earns just the second girls basketball championship banner to be hung in our gym.
“This team’s accomplishment goes far beyond wins and losses,” said Steven Lantigua, Athletics Coordinator. “From day one, I knew this team would be good, but I couldn’t have imagined a perfect 15–0 season. Going undefeated and finishing with a championship is incredibly difficult in any sport. I am extremely proud of everyone involved, including the players, coaches, and parents. Watching these girls grow together, from teammates into a true family, is what being part of the Boys & Girls Club is all about.”
Gabe Blau, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, emphasized the broader impact of the team’s success.
“Our girls brought home the trophy, cheered on by their Club community. This team showed skill, talent, and integrity all season long, supporting each other through every high and low. This championship is not just about winning. It reflects the values we bring to the court and the bright futures we are building for our kids.”
This championship reflects our ongoing commitment to providing young people with opportunities to grow through athletics, mentorship, and teamwork. Building on this momentum, the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton plans to expand its basketball programming by launching a spring team and developing a year-round initiative focused on both athletic excellence and character development.
Saturday’s victory was celebrated throughout our Club community and stands as a proud moment for our members, families, coaches, staff, and supporters. We congratulate our championship team on an unforgettable season and look forward to building on this success for years to come.