Harlem Wizards Fundraiser a Success!
On Tuesday, January 10, Stockbridge Athletic Boosters kicked off the new year by hosting the world-famous Harlem Wizards for an evening of great fun and fundraising! After the event, the numbers were tallied and a grand total of nearly $12,000 was raised!
The day started off with fun-filled, interactive assembly visits by the Wizards to both Smith and Heritage Elementary Schools. That evening, Courtside Plus ticket holders enjoyed a private meet and greet with players, and the first 15 students with “Wiz Kid” jerseys were able to sit on the bench with the Wizards! “Wiz Kids” were also able to warm up with the team!
The Wizards played an exciting game against the “Stockbridge Strong” team of Stockbridge Community School District teachers, principals, alumni, and community leaders. Jeff Trapp, Jr/Sr High School Principal who helped recruit and coach the home team said, “I’ve been looking forward to this event — we have such a great community — it’s fantastic to see everyone come together and support the Boosters and our athletic programs in such a fun way.” Trapp played in the 2018 Wizards event.
After selling more than 700 tickets the stands were filled, and the energy was electric! Laughter and cheers floated through the gym all night long, while music pumped both the crowd and players up. The dunks were rim-rattling, high-flying and awe-inspiring. The hoop artistry, ball-handling, tricks, and teamwork were mesmerizing. Stockbridge Strong player, Clyde Whitaker, a life-long Stockbridge resident and 1973 Stockbridge High School Alumni shared, “It was exciting to get out on the court and play with all these great men and women, and I was glad to volunteer. It brought me back to my high school days of getting ready for a Tuesday night game!” Whitaker hit a three pointer that night proving, he’s still got it!
An integral part of the event’s fundraising success was the generous sponsorships received from area businesses including; BelFost Construction; Ransom & Salow Brothers Farm; Polar Insulation; The State Bank; Abbott & Fillmore Insurance Agency; Smokehouse 52 BBQ; The G.U. Crew Powered by Howard Hannah; Jim Coffey & Son Plumbing and Heating; The Red Apron Eatery; Boyd Heating & Cooling; Carney’s Complete Auto Service; Print-tech, Inc.; Lori Zick and Roberta & Gary Ludtke for their Memorial gift in memory of Ed Zick; My Body Shop; Five one Seven Salon/Spa; Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition; Secret Crisis Comics; Brewster Tire and Towing; SRSLY Stockbridge; Mike & Tina’s Party Store; Ralph’s Gun Shop; TownePlace Suites By Marriott; and Graham’s Goodies. Boosters is extremely grateful for their support and would also like to thank Stockbridge Community Schools and their staff (administrative/ teaching/ coaching/ support) as well as the many volunteers, players, and refs that helped make this event a success! Lastly, special thanks to the wonderful community that came out STOCKBRIDGE STRONG to support this event! YOU are the true Hometown Heroes!
