Campbell Gets 800th Win as Claremore Tops Bixby

Originally Published: Jan 22, 2010 10:46 PM CDT

Curt Hill
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

CATOOSA, Oklahoma – Mark Campbell shouldn’t have a hard time remembering who he beat for his 800th victory. After all, it was his daughter.

Campbell picked up the milestone victory in the second round of the Port City Classic on Friday when his Claremore team beat Bixby, 37-25. The Spartans are coached by Melody Stewart, Campbell’s daughter.

After the game, Stewart handed the game ball to her father and hugged him.

"I wish we didn't have to beat (Melody) because she's such a great coach and she works so hard," Campbell said. "I just love her, she's a great person, a great coach, and it meant a lot to have her hand me the ball."

Campbell was quick to thank those who have helped him get to his 800th win, especially the players. He also said helping those players mature is his biggest reward.

“I got out of coaching for three years and got back in, and I'm so glad I did,” Campbell said. “I don't make near the money, but it’s a lot of fun building kids lives. That's really where our rewards come from.”

As for the game, Jordan Schultz led the way for Claremore with 22 points.

Schultz and Taylor Swift helped the Lady Zebras jump out to a commanding 12-0 lead in the first quarter. Schultz had six points, while Swift scored five and drew two charges.

The Spartans finally got on the board at the seven-minute mark of the second quarter when Britnie Powell hit a lay-up. From there, the momentum swung towards Bixby and the Spartans cut the Claremore lead to 14-10. Schultz hit a three-pointer right before the break, and the Lady Zebras went into the half up 17-10.

Claremore extended the lead to 11 in the third quarter and held off Bixby in the final period.

Brittany Harris and Lauren Robertson each had six points for the Spartans.

The Lady Zebras move onto the championship where they will face Harrah at 7:00 p.m. Bixby will take on Verdigris in the 3rd place game at 4:00 p.m.