The Bethel Park community is deeply saddened by the passing of one of its biggest supporters, Shawn O’Mara.

The boys basketball team wanted to pay homage to Mr. O’Mara and his family during this difficult time. During the home game on Jan. 17 against Peters Township, many players on the roster could be seen with an “O’Mara” band on their arms.

“This team is a family,” said junior guard Michael Mathias. “We wanted to show our support to our teammate Frank and the entire O’Mara family during this time.”

Coming off a big win against Thomas Jefferson, the Hawks looked to continue the same energy against Peters. They controlled the tempo in the first half going into halftime leading 36-33.

Unfortunately, the Hawks could not close the door against Peters Township. Some late triples by Peters and foul calls not going the right direction were the deal breakers late in the fourth quarter.

Hawk fans witnessed an entertaining back-and-forth game led by Shawn Davis with 23 points and Ben Guffey with 17.

It went down to the wire, but some games just don’t fall your way as the Hawks lost a tough game 75-68. The boys fought valiantly up until the final buzzer.

With the loss, the Hawks (9-4, 4-1) are in a three-way tie for first place in Section 1-5A with Peters (11-3, 4-1) and Thomas Jefferson (8-5, 4-1).

The entire Bethel Park community continues to give its thoughts and condolences to the O’Mara family.

A GoFundMe was established in Shawn O’Mara’s name.