Imagine a gym filled with laughter, the squeak of sneakers, and the rhythmic bounce of basketballs – all fueled by the passion of college athletes giving back to their community. That's exactly what happened when the Grace College men's basketball team brought their annual clinic back to Milford Elementary School on October 11th. This wasn't just about teaching jump shots and layups; it was about something bigger.
Daizy McCall, EJ Compson, and Tate Compson, beaming with pride, posed for a photo after the clinic, capturing the joy of the day. The event, organized by the Lancers, saw the entire team travel from Winona Lake to Milford, not just to showcase their skills, but to share their love for the game and their values with the younger generation.
And this is the part most people miss: It wasn't just about basketball. Lee Compson, Pastor at Milford First Brethren Church and team chaplain for the Lancers, emphasized the team's commitment to service. "It was a lot of fun," he said, "but more importantly, it aligns perfectly with the team's ethos of helping others."
Noah Rutherford, a team manager, echoed this sentiment. "Incorporating faith into the clinic was crucial," he explained. "Being part of the community, showing these kids that life is about more than just scoring points, that's what makes this event truly special."
The partnership between Grace College and Milford Elementary is a testament to the power of community collaboration. Principal Michael Casey and his staff have been instrumental in making this annual event a success, providing a welcoming space for the clinic. This year, 22 eager kids, ranging from second to eighth grade, participated in a variety of drills, learning not only basketball fundamentals but also valuable life lessons from players who grew up in the very same area. With players hailing from Warsaw, NorthWood, Lakeland Christian, and Manchester, the team's connection to the community runs deep, making their desire to give back even more meaningful.
But here's where it gets controversial: While the clinic focuses on basketball and faith, some might argue that emphasizing religious values in a public school setting could be seen as exclusionary. What do you think? Should events like this strive for complete secularism, or is there value in incorporating personal beliefs into community outreach? Let's continue the conversation in the comments below!
