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LEMMON, SD (KFYR) – The thing about small towns is that everyone knows each other and everyone is connected.<\/p>\n
Sometimes it extends to other nearby small communities.<\/p>\n
But this story takes that connection to the next level. This is the story of a family that lives with basketball.<\/p>\n
Luckily, sharing a passion has strengthened their connection and family bond.<\/p>\n
Heather Katas approaches every basketball game with intensity.<\/p>\n
This game is special for Coach Katus. Her Lemon Cowgirl hosts the Bowman County Bulldogs, who are mentored by Jaci Mrnak, who is her Heather’s eldest daughter.<\/p>\n
“She’s got a really good team,” Heather said.<\/p>\n
Jaci’s team is ranked #10 in North Dakota.<\/p>\n
“I’m really proud of my daughters this year,” said Jaci.<\/p>\n
This game is a non-conference match. On the line: Family bragging rights.<\/p>\n
This family connection extends beyond the coaching staff.<\/p>\n
Heather’s husband and Jaci’s father, Scott Katus, was one of the three referees serving.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I first got the offer for this game, I asked the athletic director, ‘Are you sure you want me to do this?’\u201d recalls Scott.<\/p>\n
The athletic director was fine with it, and so was the coach. In fact, they say Scott is one of the best when it comes to refereeing.<\/p>\n
“He’s going to have a good game. He’s a good official,” Jaci said.<\/p>\n
“It’s just basketball, two teams, and he’s doing what he loves,” added Heather.<\/p>\n
This is Scott’s 25th year as a referee.<\/p>\n
“He’s worked at the state tournament. He’s officiating the state championship games in South Dakota,” Jaci said.<\/p>\n
Heather has been coaching Jaycee since he was a baby. She tutored all four of her children.<\/p>\n
“I’m proud of my mom who works so hard for her daughters and loves coaching,” said Jussie.<\/p>\n
Jaycee is in his fifth year with Bowman County, but his first as a head coach. Her parents get a glimpse into Jaci and the way she teaches.<\/p>\n
“Some of the things her girls do that I taught her are definitely seen,” Heather said.<\/p>\n
“You can really see her mother’s wisdom and her father’s stubbornness,” said Scott.<\/p>\n
It’s easy to get caught up in winning or losing, but this family works hard to keep everything in perspective.<\/p>\n
“This is just a game,” said Heather.<\/p>\n
And they know how lucky they are to share moments like this.<\/p>\n
“This doesn’t happen very often. This is really great for our family,” Jaci said.<\/p>\n
Bowman County gave Jaci bragging rights of the year with a 54-31 victory over the Cowgirls in Friday’s game.<\/p>\n
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