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On Feb. 27, Mills Pond Elementary School fourth and fifth graders participated in Hoops for Hearts, which raised over $800 for the American Heart Association.

The students gathered together to compete in a three-point challenge, relay races and basketball games. 

The event even caught the attention of News 12 who interviewed students as well as  fourth grade teacher Kristin Quail, and fifth grade teachers Melissa Taylor and Diana Lanze, who all spoke about the importance of keeping healthy and active. 

 

Photo caption: Mills Pond Elementary school students recently took part in a basketball fundraiser to benefit the American Heart Association.

 

Photos courtesy of Smithtown CSD

   

On February 18th, the Girls Basketball team demonstrated their leadership and compassion by hosting a special basketball clinic that went far beyond skill-building on the court. With all proceeds donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the event aimed to support cancer research, advocacy, and patient care, making a meaningful impact in the fight against blood cancer.

This initiative was spearheaded by junior Katie Lent, who, along with two other campaign members, is on a mission to raise $30,000 by March 14th to support patient care. Inspired to combine her passion for basketball with her fundraising efforts, Katie approached her coach with the idea of organizing the clinic. With support in scheduling, community outreach, and adult supervision, Katie and her teammates took the lead in bringing this vision to life.

The clinic wasn’t just about basketball – it was about giving back to the community. Eleven varsity team members volunteered their time and energy to coach 18 young athletes, ranging from second to seventh grade. Participants rotated through various skill stations, practiced fundamental drills, and joined in fun games. The event ended with a spirited game of knockout, pitting the “coaches” against the kids, creating unforgettable memories for all involved.

The girls brought enthusiasm and heart to every aspect of the clinic, proving they are champions both on and off the court. Their efforts paid off in more ways than one, raising over $500 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society while inspiring younger athletes to contribute to a greater cause.

This event beautifully illustrated the power of sports to bring communities together for a meaningful purpose. The Girls Basketball team showed remarkable leadership, empathy, and community spirit, leaving a lasting impact and proving that their influence extends far beyond the game.

The LS Girls Hoops team spent a rewarding morning volunteering with Sudbury’s 2nd graders, providing a wonderful opportunity for the athletes to give back to their community. The event allowed the team to connect with the future generation of athletes while reinforcing the importance of service.

This volunteer effort is part of the team’s ongoing commitment to community service, with events like these occurring every year. One of the assistant coaches even runs the 2nd-grade skill clinic weekly, allowing the team to step in, help coach, and run stations, directly engaging with young athletes. These LS Girls Hoops players continue to serve as great role models, demonstrating leadership both on and off the court.

During the recent Rye boys’ and girls’ playoff games, a heartfelt fundraiser was held to support ovarian cancer research in memory of Tiffany O’Toole, the mother of former players Thomas (2019) and Teaghan (2020). The event, organized by Rye Athletics, highlighted the role of student-athletes in giving back to meaningful causes, raising awareness for ovarian cancer research and reinforcing the sense of community that sports can foster.

Tiffany O’Toole, a beloved member of the Rye High School basketball community, passed away in June after a brave battle with ovarian cancer. She was a dedicated supporter of the program and the mother of former player Teaghan Flaherty. Her contributions to the team and her warm, caring spirit had a lasting impact on everyone involved.

In Tiffany’s honor, 50/50 raffles were held during both the boys’ and girls’ basketball games, and additional donations were accepted from supporters. All funds raised from these efforts will be directed toward ovarian cancer research, continuing Tiffany’s legacy and supporting the fight against this devastating disease.