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Hoop shoot winners named
Students from the Mountain Home area put their basketball sharpshooting skills to the test on Saturday during this year's hoop shoot competition.
Hosted by Mountain Home Elks Lodge 2276, the competition required participants to sink free-throws baskets with the hoop distance shortened for younger participants.
"This is important to our kids to keep them active and involved in this type of sportsmanship," said hoop shoot chairman Larry Fincher.
Fincher also thanked all the teachers that help get the program initiated in their schools before the Christmas break.
"Their participation is so very appreciated and a valued partnership," he added.
He credited the staff at Mountain Home Junior High School for allowing the lodge to use their gym space on a early cold January morning. He also thanked all the local elks that volunteered their time and provided supplies that morning "to provide a program for our local community youth and families."
Providing these types of activities for local youth promotes sportsmanship and healthy lifestyles, which takes a village to accomplish, Fincher said. But most important is the support of these participants by their parents.
"It is heartwarming to see the family support and participation as parent and family members attend to cheer on their athletes," Fincher said.
On the court, these students display a variety of skills that highlights their effort and determination. While they may face disappointment when they miss a basket, their spirit always shines, Fincher added.
Those placing first during this year's event will advance to district-level competition, scheduled for Jan. 23 in Nampa.
"Give these kids a shout out and the encouragement they each deserve," Fincher said. "They are all winners in our books, and we congratulate and thank them all."
This year's winners and participants in each age category are as follows:
Eight to nine year-old category
Girls -- Aniyah Wilson, East Elementary School, first place; Kora Similer and Natasha Tetrault, participants
Boys -- Cyrus Wetherell, North Elementary School, first place; Zane Rielins, participant
10 to 11 year-old category
Girls -- Julia Gilbert, Hacker Middle School, first place; JaiDah Liebert. Aaliyah Morris and Ameerah Wilson, participants
Boys -- Sean Jackson, Hacker Middle School, first place; Jordan Andrew, Kelier Wetherell and Kyle Knutson, participants
12-13 year-old category
Girls -- Emily Harper, Hacker Middle School, first place; Adtison Clark, participant
Boys -- Deven Andrews, Mountain Home Junior High School, first place; Brandon Bethel, participant