“What Chester Makes Makes Chester”. Such was the slogan erected on 6th and Crosby Streets in Chester, Pennsylvania for all residents to see. For over 40 years (up until it was taken down in 1973) that saying was a source of pride and inspiration for the city located a few miles south of Philadelphia along the Delaware River.
The oldest city in Pennsylvania has experienced its share of challenges dating back to the 1950s with the exodus of shipyard and automobile manufacturing jobs. Nevertheless, that classic Chester pride maintains a stranglehold among residents. The reason for this is a commitment to excellence from a basketball program often overlooked by bigger name schools and locales.
Lacking the big city sheen and major professional sports flash of Philly, the Chester community has cultivated and maintained a basketball culture that stacks up against any on the high school level. Check the numbers; Chester High has won a Pennsylvania record eight state championships. Since 1982 they have qualified for the state tournament every year except in 1992. The Clippers have also won 75 straight games over in-state opponents.
How does one explain such fertile ground for hoop greatness? Continue reading
THE MARSHALL REVIEW 