The Father Barry Tournament has been one of the staple showcases of Jesuit High School basketball since the 1973. For over 40 years, Jesuit has put together a clash between 8 competitive basketball teams from across the country.

The tournament has long been a showcase of many different high schools as they take part in a weekend long bout during an early part of the basketball season.

This year marks the 41st time that the Marauders will step onto the court for the Father Barry Tournament.

During the tournament’s early beginnings, Jesuit focused on getting 8 catholic schools around the country in order to showcase the teams to the community.

“This is some great competition for Jesuit and a great opportunity for everyone to watch some entertaining basketball.  This is also the time of year where a lot of Jesuit alumni come back to the area and this an opportunity for them and the entire Jesuit community to come together to watch our team play,” said Mr. Chris Fahey, Jesuit’s Athletic Director.

This year, the tournament consist of several high quality teams that present a good challenge for the Marauders early in the season.  Along with Jesuit, the rest of the tournament pool consists of St. Mary’s High School, Xavier High School, Notre Dame Sherman Oaks High School, Archbishop Mitty High School, Cathedral Catholic High School, Damien High School, and St. Francis Mountain View High School.

“It is a long and fun tradition against well coached teams. Our team this year is really young, and last weekend’s competition really helped us improve,” said Coach Harcos.

This contest has been a long tradition at Jesuit and Coach Harcos remembers what it was like back then.

“I have a lot of fond memories coaching in this tournament. In fact, I remember four coaches who played as athletes in this tournament,” said Coach Harcos.

On Thursday, the Marauders defeated Xavier Prep, 73-36.  They will play their next game against St. Francis Mountain View tonight at 7:30.