LAKEVILLE - Prior to the start of the 2023-24 high school basketball season, there was a good chance that LaVille's Collin Czarnecki could reach, and surpass, 1,000 career points. The 6'2" junior started the current season just a shade over 800 points, so barring injury and a consistent offensive season the possibility was very real. "Before the season started, I was very aware that I was nearly 200 points away from reaching 1,000 points," Czarnecki said when asked about any awareness of hitting the milestone.  "Reaching 1,000 points was a big goal of mine for a long time, so I was keeping an eye on how close I was throughout the season." There were thoughts that with a 20 point per game average that he could become the seventh player all-time to score 1,000 points at LaVille around the time the Everwise Bi-County Basketball Tournament arrived. That, indeed, was the case! Following the 48-46 semifinal game win over Bremen, Czarnecki crept closer to 1,000 points.  "Going into the Friday game (against the Lions), I knew I was getting really close, but I found out exactly how many more points I needed the day before," explained Czarnecki.  "I thought I would hit 1,000 in the next 2 to 3 games; but to hit it in Bi-County was great.  The Bi-County environment is always fun to play in." Heading into the championship game against rival John Glenn Saturday night, Czarnecki's goal was within reach. After a couple of two point field goals and a 3-pointer, Czarnecki needed just a single point to hit the mark. He was fouled as he went 1-on-1 to the basket from the left wing. Following contact that drew a foul in the act of shooting, the Lancer junior went to the foul line. He stepped to the line, executed his routine and let it fly. It hit the front of the rim, then back before dropping through the net for point number one thousand. He quickly was greeted by hand slaps from senior Lucas Plummer and sophomore Braedyn Foster as the LaVille faithful applauded.  He then raised his hand to recognize the applause from the fans and Lancer student section who acknowledged the accomplishment. "Before the Saturday night game, I was definitely thinking about what kind of shot I was going to reach 1,000 on," Czarnecki admitted.  "Honestly, I didn't think it was going to happen on a free throw and I don't know why, but I didn't mind that it did.  However, before the free throw, I don't think time has ever gone slower and my heart was beating extremely fast." With that charity toss, Czarnecki became the seventh Lancer basketball player in the 1,000 point club along with Pat Adkins, Luke Beehler, Blake Berger, Carl Herbster, Andrew Hostetler and Adam Steinke. "It feels amazing to be in the 1,000 point club with these players because they are some of the best players who have had some of the most impactful careers at LaVille," said Czarnecki, who is currently 6th all-time in LaVille basketball scoring history.  "I grew up watching some of these players like Blake Berger, Luke Beehler, Adam Steinke, and Andrew Hostetler play.  After watching them hit 1,000 points, I knew that was something I wanted to do." As Czarnecki continues through his third season of playing under Michael and Jack Edison, he appreciates the opportunity to play for the Edison's. "Playing for the Edison coaches has been a great experience for me and a reason why I have been able to do what I have done," Czarnecki said, referring to the Edison father-son duo that own over 760 careers wins between them.  "Both Edison coaches are always pushing our team to be better themselves because of how badly they want us to win.  They put us through very competitive practices that prepare us well for games and make us better.  They are great at putting every player in a position that allows them to be successful." As the Everwise Bi-County boys championship game was set to tip off, LaVille fans - including family and friends - knew they were about to witness another piece of history. And he loves to play in front of Lancer Nation! "Reaching the milestone was the greatest at home because my family has supported and encouraged my goals throughout my high school career," said Czarnecki.  "My parents don't ever miss a game and my brother only came home from college that weekend to watch me reach 1,000 points.  My schoolmates were very excited for me as well and seeing what they did for me at the game once I reached 1,000 points was fun.  My extended family was in the stands as well, watching and cheering loudly like they do every game.  It was also nice to hit 1,000 at home in front of all the supportive fans we have at LaVille." For now, Czarnecki and his teammates continue to focus and get better every day.