The basketballs were going “swish”! The cheerleaders were waving their pom poms”! The crowd was going wild when Sunny Isles Beach K-8 and David Lawrence K-8 played the first annual feeder pattern basketball game at Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Senior High. It was a great night filled with energy and excitement as students and parents cheered for their schools.
Coach Todd Avery, SIBCS Physical Education teacher and team captain, originated the idea of this game and approached the PTSAs of both schools for their assistance. That was the start of months of planning and working together as a feeder pattern team. A spirit of cooperation and camaraderie dominated as the PTSA presidents and their respective boards worked together planning the details, promoting the event, and building new bridges. Coach Avery’s vision became a reality when the teams and community assembled at ATM on February 8th.
The evening began with Dr. Weissman and Mr. Osborn, the two principals, in center court for the tipoff. As the teams of men and women from each school ran up and down the court shooting baskets, the fans in the bleachers reacted with enthusiasm. The event was a celebration of the friendship and collegiality of this unique feeder pattern comprised of just three schools. There was a real sense of family among the players and the patrons.
The half time activities included a free throw shooting contest among the three school mascots, the Shark, the Dolphin and the Seahawk. The ATM cheerleaders and dancers also treated us to a demonstration of their acrobatic cheers. The students reacted with thundering applause of appreciation.
And the outcome of the game left the SIB family chanting, “We’re number one”. Yes, SIB won and will be housing the trophy for the next year. This event promises to be a highlight of each school year as we build a tradition of feeder pattern activities that encourage family involvement and a spirit of community cooperation.
