Free Throw Contest
      

The time had come, the waiting was over, and it was now or never.  Their name had been called and as they stood up and walked forward they would glance back looking for that reassuring smile or thumbs up. Ever so carefully they would approach the line, and then stop, close their eyes, as if to steady themselves…maybe even offer up a prayer or two.  Afterwards the eyes would open and the bouncing would begin in repetitions of three 1, 2, 3, hold, 1, 2, 3 hold.  When they felt the time was right and the wind was just perfect (in the enclosed gym) they would crouch down and launch the basketball to the hoop.

By the look on their face you knew this was serious business…as far as they were concerned they were going to the NBA, and they were going to use The Knights of Columbus Free throw challenge to get there!   One would only have to watch the reaction whether the shot was good or not.   If the shot went in, they played it cool.  If it bounced hopelessly off the rim, they would glance at the bleachers looking for that encouragement only few folks could offer, but it was all they needed to take a deep breath gather themselves and try again.  Watching this scene play out through the course of the night reminded me of a quote I heard a long time ago:  “You don't play against opponents; you play against the game of basketball." - Bobby Knight

This year’s Knights of Columbus Free throw Challenge took place at the beautiful new gym at Holy Spirit Catholic School.  Most all of the councils in our district 14 were there competing and I met many new faces.  Brother Michael Poumade of Holy Spirit opened the competition by going over the rules followed by a prayer.  I must say he did a great job of organizing this event and made his fellow Knights and everyone feel right at home.

 For St. Mary’s of Sorrows council we had the Scott family represent us.  Ben competed with the boy’s in the 10 year old age group and Brianna competed in the 14 year old age group for the girls.  In all age groups the competition was tight.  Although Ben and Brianna will not be going to the State competition I am so proud of them in the way they represented St. Mary’s of Sorrows at District with class and dignity.  It is my pleasure to introduce you to the Scott Family Ben, Brianna and Mom & Dad, our St. Mary’s of Sorrows council CHAMPIONS!

Stephen Morales, KOC Youth Chair