Though the definition of 'hurting' changes from person to person, Chester High's inability to make a good chunk of its free-throw attempts is hurting the Clippers.

Here's why: At one stretch of Saturday's PIAA Class AAAA quarterfinal, the Clippers held a 17-point lead against Coatesville ... and that was while Chester had made only 2 of 10 foul shots.

Ultimately, Chester annihilated Coatesville, 87-46, to advance to Wednesday's PIAA semifinal against Central Dauphin. But the Clippers' penchant for missing free throws could hurt them down the road when, say, they're playing on a much-larger stage (State College, perhaps?) against a much-better opponent (let's say, oh, I don't know...Lower Merion?)

Chester finished its quarterfinal win over Coatesville by making 16 of 32 attempts at the foul line.

"Free throws are important, no matter if you’re hitting them or you’re not," said Chester junior Rondae Jefferson. "That's a basket you’ve got to make. It's free. There’s no pressure. You just have to take your time and knock it down. I wouldn't say that. I feel like we’ve got to knock them down no matter what. Honestly, it's maturity. It's focus and concentration at the free-throw line."

For the season, Chester --- as a team --- is shooting somewhere in the ballpark of 60 percent from the charity stripe. (Best I can do for now. My stat-keeping is a little backed up.)