Carson High School names basketball court after Tom Andreasen

The late Tom Andreasen had a profound affect on Congressman Mark Amodei’s life on and off the basketball court.

“As a teacher, coach, mentor and life-long Nevadan Tom Andreasen positively affected the lives of everyone who knew him,” Amodei recently said on his Facebook page. “His unwavering commitment to coaching and education has, without a doubt, made a notable and lasting impact on the Carson City community.”

Amodei, who played on Andreasen’s 1975 state championship team, corresponded to the Carson City School District back in February, requesting the basketball floor be named in honor of Andreasen, who passed away after a bout with cancer earlier this year. In early July, Amodei got his wish.

“I’m pleased to see him honored in the exact location where he taught me the importance of teamwork, loyalty and how to overcome life’s challenges through perseverance. I’m profoundly grateful for his wisdom.”

According to CHS basketball coach Carlos Mendeguia, Amodei has volunteered to cover the cost of the lettering on the floor. The work was done after the gym floor went through its yearly work.

“It’s a great thing; well deserved,” Mendeguia said. “He was AD at Carson when I first came here, and he was here when Bruce (Barnes) and I took over the program. He was always happy and never in a bad mood.

“When Bruce and I took over, he was there for us, and helped whenever it was needed. He was like that for everybody. He did so much for northern Nevada basketball, especially at Carson and Virginia City. He helped run the state tournament.”

Mendeguia said an official ceremony will be held on a Friday night during the basketball season.

On a side note, Mendeguia said that Carson High has been awarded the regional basketball playoffs this season.