Mark Loera, assistant Elks' basketball coach, proud to have earned a state championship medal, gave it away at the Sunday reception for the returning Elks and Elkettes in Ben Luján Gymnasium.

The recipient of Loera's generosity was Ray Gomez, 71, a Pojoaque High basketball fan.

"Ray is one of the Pojoaque elders who represent the spirit of Pojoaque basketball," Loera said. "Coach Ray now has a piece of history to wear around his neck."

Five years ago, when Loera started coaching basketball at Pojoaque Valley High, Gomez was one of the first to embrace him as an Elk.

"He told me of Pojoaque's basketball history and how thirsty the community was for a boys' state title," Loera said. "Before every game, he always shook my hand and gave me advice."

Loera said he decided to give his medal to Gomez when he saw Gomez sitting in Ben Luján Gymnasium with a big smile on his face.

"We made eye contact and I decided then and there to give my medal to coach Gomez," Loera said.

Gomez, who taught 35 years in the Pojoaque School system, said Loera's gift was completely unexpected.

"I felt so humble and proud that I was being recognized for what I've done for Pojoaque basketball," Gomez said. "I felt like crying, but I didn't."

Gomez's contributions to Pojoaque High basketball are both tangible and intangible.

He coached elementary school basketball for 15 years. He was the Pojoaque High official scorekeeper for 35 years. But more importantly, he represents the heart and soul of Pojoaque basketball.

"I call him Mr. Pojoaque Valley," head coach Joey Trujillo said. "He knows everything about the history of Pojoaque High basketball, and he's always there to help out whenever we need him."

Gomez said the Elks and Elkettes state championship wins have bonded the community and made everyone proud to be from Pojoaque.

"I waited all my life to see the Elks win a state championship before I go six feet under," Gomez said. "But I'm not ready to die until the Elks win another blue trophy."

Asked what he was going to do with the medal, he smiled and said, "I'm going to frame it, and they'll probably put it in my casket the day I croak."