WAUPACA COUNTY NEWS

October 4, 1923

 

WAUPACA MAY HAVE CRACK BASKETBALL TEAM DURING COMING SEASON

 

            If present plans are carried out, Waupaca will be represented by a first class professional basketball team during the coming season.  Fred Bushey has consented to take the mater in charge, and a meeting will be called soon to ascertain how many local men want to try out for positions on the squad.  Mr. Bushey has had nearly twenty years’ experience as basketball manager and coach, and on more than one occasion has turned out state championship teams.  For the past two years he handled the Tractor team at Menasha, playing in several states, and defeating practically all of the best teams last season.  In fact, the crack Cardinal team of Fond du Lac suffered its only defeat of the season on its home floor at the hands of the light but fast Tractor quintet.  The long list of wins credited to the Menasha team were largely responsible to the great scoring ability of George Madson, a Neenah High School, but who has been playing under Bushey’s direction for the past two seasons. Madson has established a state-wide reputation through his wonderful eye for the basket, and it is doubtful whether his equal as a forward is to be found in the state.  It will be interesting news to local fans to know that he will make his home in this city during the coming season, and will don a Waupaca uniform at the opening of the season.  Madson, who is also somewhat of a pool and billiard “shark”, will doubtless be employed at one of the billiard parlors here.  Several other high class players are desirous of coming here to play, but as many local players will be used as possible.  It is the general opinion here that a first class basketball team, properly handled and coached, will prove not only a financial success, but will furnish excellent entertainment during the winter months, especially when some of the strong touring teams will be seen in action on the local floor.  There are several first class players in this city who will be glad to turn out for practice, and with the aid of one or two outside men of high caliber Waupaca should gain an enviable place on the state basketball map.