Norwin team manager gets thrill – and a basket – on senior night

By: HSSN Staff
Saturday, February 9, 2019 | 3:15 PM

Norwin girls basketball team manager Jess Welch-Mussori was honored on senior night, just like Knights players Jessica Kolesar, Emily Brozeski and Abby Best.

On this occasion, though, Welch-Mussori truly could call the rest of the group her teammates.

Norwin trotted out Welch-Mussori in a basketball uniform Friday in North Huntingdon, and the smiling senior sank the opening basket.

Welch-Mussori was born with a progressive disorder that causes vision problems.

Much of what she does is predicated on sound.

She also has Stage 3 kidney disease but has combated the illness and defied the odds for years. She continues to inspire people.

“Jess exemplifies the good in high school sports,” coach Brian Brozeski said. “The life lessons that she has taught us are far greater than any senior night ceremony we can give her. What I have learned from Jess is that in the game of life, you must trust God’s plan and keep a positive outlook on the future and enjoy and cherish the moments you can spend with friends and family.”

Norwin and Fox Chapel worked out a plan to let her make a layup before the teams played their final Section 1-6A game of the season.

The basket came after the opening tip.

Wearing a No. 55 jersey, game shorts, black hi-tops and a white headband, she set aside the water jug and towels for a few minutes, took two dribbles and promptly banked in her shot and raised her arms to trigger a rousing ovation from the audience — and hugs from Norwin players.

“It was absolutely incredible to see such an amazing person have the chance to do what she loves on senior night,” senior forward Emily Brozeski said. “She has been a crucial part of this team for the past four years now. Jess always does things for us, and it was nice to reciprocate that for her.

“She deserved that moment so much, and I am so thankful that I, along with the rest of the team, was able to be there with her for her special night.”

Bill Beckner is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Bill at bbeckner@tribweb.com or via Twitter @BillBeckner.

Tags: Norwin