The item about Beck's Hybrids at Atlanta dedicating a conference room in their new research building to Kyle Smith, former director of research for Beck's Hybrids, included some memories of days I spent with Kyle. One of his favorite stories was about the record-setting nine-overtime Swayzee played in back in the 1960's.
I noted that I assumed they lost. An astute reader and obvious fan of one-class basketball who remembers those days corrects me. He says Swayzee won the game.
According to the reader, the game was an afternoon game of the Marion Regional on March 15, 1964. Swayzee defeated Liberty Center.
Astute Reader Corrects Legend Of The Famous Basketball Game
Within a couple years both schools were absorbed in consolidation. Swayzee consolidated into what is now Oak Hill High School.
One thing Governor Daniels did not accomplish in his successful two-term career as governor was forcing closure and consolidation of Indiana's remaining smallest high schools. Some may indeed eventually consolidate, but it hasn't happened yet.
What came out during the debate a couple of years ago was that Indiana law didn't require consolidation back then either. It appears that a Purdue professor pushed the issue hard, and many small schools felt they had no choice.
What was gained was the opportunity to offer more subjects and gain on efficiencies. What was lost was school spirit and the heart of many small towns- its high school.
Sorry for area to former Swayzee fans- thanks to our readers for the correction.