SOMSG sweeps basketball championships Published April 18, 2011 By Tech. Sgt. Deidre E.E. Hines 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Cannon's 27th Special Operations Mission Support Group claimed both men's intramural and over 30 base basketball championships. Although the tournament ended April 7, the coaches are still amped from their victories. "I knew we had a good shot at winning the championship," said Steven McCoy, 27th Special Operations Logistic Readiness Squadron intramural coach. "We were able to talk the talk, and walk the walk." Anthony Jones, 27th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron, over 30 team coach said, "It was really exciting to win. This is my first championship in 16 years. It feels good." But it wasn't all 3-pointers and applause for the teams; they both faced a historical opponent--military commitment. "With the games being held during lunch time we weren't sure if everyone could make it," said Jones. "But we stuck with it. As long as we had the [required] five people, we had a chance." The 27 SOLRS team wouldn't be benched by this opponent either. "We let each other know who was going to make it and we prepared a game plan with what we had," said McCoy. Communication and five on the court secured the first Intramural Base Basketball Championship sweep for Col. Steven Kimball, 27 SOMSG commander. Colonel Kimball said he believes intramural programs teach individuals the importance of practice, patience, and persistence. He added, "These qualities make us better team members and contribute to strong unit cohesion, camaraderie, trust and confidence." Those same qualities, important for military members, also contribute to the Commander's Cup competition--in the way of points. Squadrons that participate in intramural/varsity sports, sport representative meetings, and fun runs, rack up points towards the Commander's Cup. This annual competition is held at the base fitness center and yields a traveling trophy and bragging rights to the winning squadron. Although 27 SOMSG claimed the intramural basketball championship, squadrons are not out of the running. The intramural volleyball pregame digs in April 25, followed by softball later this summer. Personnel interested in playing can contact squadron sport representatives to sign up. For those interested in showing support by attending the various games, contact the base fitness center at 784-2466 for game times and schedules.