SAN DIEGO SECTION BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS : 1-A Girls : Calvin Christian Gives Its Coach Hair-Razing Experience and Title

“Win one for the razor” might have been the motivational slogan in Calvin Christian’s 38-32 victory over Holtville Saturday in the San Diego Section 1-A girls’ championship game in the Sports Arena.

Before last season’s 1-A final--also against Holtville--Frank Zuidema, Calvin Christian Coach, put his nine-year-old beard on the line, telling his players they could shave it off if they won. Calvin Christian lost, 45-39.

Mary Andringa, a four-year starter, made four free throws in the final minute Saturday to secure the victory for Calvin Christian (20-4). And the beard finally came off, with each player taking part in the trimming.

“It was extra motivation for us,” said Andringa, who had 17 points and 17 rebounds. “This is the biggest thing to ever happen to our school.”

It is the first section championship in any sport for the private Escondido school.

Calvin took a 22-12 halftime lead on the strength of nine straight points by Andringa. However, Holtville (15-7), using an aggressive 2-2-1 zone press, forced 13 second-half turnovers. Holtville went on a 10-2 run to cut a 30-20 deficit to 32-30 with 3:14 remaining. Holtville had six chances to tie the score but failed each time.

Calvin Christian will open Wednesday in the first round of the Southern California regional playoffs. Pairings and site will be announced today.