Coginchaug's Salva Gets 300th Win

The boys' basketball team beat North Branford 66-32 Monday night, earning head coach Todd Salva his 300th career win.

A gym packed with fans, family and former players celebrated the milestone, while Salva, who replaced legendary Blue Devils coach Wally Camp 21 years ago, gave the credit to his players and coaches.

"It's nice, but it's not me winning the games. It's the whole program and every kid from tonight's game and the past 21 years all had a hand in it," Salva said. "I've just been fortunate over the years to have a lot of kids come through the system and really buy in to what we're doing here."

The Blue Devils (4-1) were in control most of the way, led by Erikson Wasyl's 18 points. Ethan Donecker added 14 and Sam Baker finished with 13.

At the final buzzer fans held up signs that read "300" and Coginchaug Athletic Director Ted Lombardo presented Salva with a ceremonial cake near center court.

In reflecting back on a career that includes Shoreline Conference Championships in 1995 and 2007, Salva said it's about more than just wins.

"John Forline has been with me all 21 years and we just have so much fun. Honestly, we don't talk about winning and losing, we talk about doing thing's right and these kids bought into that. If you do everything right and you put a good effort into it then you're going to win the game. It's the end result of everything else you did and that's what we take a lot of pride in.

"I've had so many good kids.. kids that are very respectful, they're proud to represent Coginchaug. They make their parents proud, they make me proud. That's what's nice about coaching here. This is a passion for me and I've just been lucky to have the type of kids I've had over the years."

Salva added that he's enjoyed "tremendous" support from the district over the years.

As for replacing a legend, he showed his sense of humor.

"They said 'How are you going to fill Wally Camp's shoes?' and I said I'm not, I'm going to bring my own shoes because nobody can fill Wally's shoes."