SHREVEPORT — A 34-42 regional playoff loss against Loyola Prep spelled the end to a challenging season for the young St. Charles Catholic Comets.

Going into the game, head coach Kemper Todd knew Loyola Prep to be a well-coached team with a similar philosophy, specializing in man-to-man defensive.

The Comets, who have put forth a strong defensive front this season, fell short against the Flyers during Wednesday evening’s road game.

Sophomore Christian Montz played a strong game, leading in scoring with 16 points and going 4 for 4 from the free throw line.

Todd said Montz was standout all season, typically compiling double digits in points and rebounds while posting the team’s highest free throw percentage and lowest turnover percentage.

Sophomore Owen Bourgeois rounded out scoring against Loyola Prep with seven points, including a 3-pointer and four made free throws.

Todd said junior Joseph Mamou and sophomore Justin Dumas played hard this season amid a tough district schedule that included De La Salle and Lusher Carter, two of the top four Division II teams.

With three sophomores and two juniors in the starting lineup, Todd said 2017-18 was all about gaining experience.

“We went 7-20 and were seeded No. 9, so we can’t be too proud of that, but it’s more about the journey,” Todd said.

“It’s not just about this year. We experienced a lot. This was our second year in a row going to the quarterfinals, and that’s the furthest SCC has gone in a long time.”

Not having a home gym to play and practice in until just more than a month ago was another challenge, according to Todd.

Over the past months, Todd said the team has lost a handful of players for “various inside reasons,” but those who stuck it out have benefitted.

“We’ve been through a lot of obstacles, but the growth in this young team has been very successful,” Todd said.