On January 17th, there was a special event dedicated to military troops, known as the annual Hoops for Troops, at Manville High School. This event had taken place inside the school’s gymnasium from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It was free of charge for all, and all proceeds from donations made went to the VFW. 

This event involved both Manville High School girls and boys basketball teams, who played in a total of three games. It started off with the girl’s varsity team playing against Henry Hudson, then the boys team played JV and Willsell Park.

Coach Knitowski had originally come up with this idea a few years ago from a student named Holly Cornelson, whose father was in the army and passed away. He said, “I kind of wanted to honor him in that sense, and we built it up from there. Everything that we do for this, all proceeds and donations are going to be donated to our local VFW in Manville.” Coach Rooney added, “It is always good to give back to the community and give some recognition to the town.” 

In preparation, those involved had chosen this event to be a basketball game because it brings more recognition and awareness for the event, itself, in a more effective way. Many volunteers, from parents, to students from Manville High School and National Honor Society, had contributed towards the event by helping to organize and set up the gymnasium for this honorable event. Additionally, besides the basketball games, there were concession stands set up with Manville Pizza providing subs, pizza, chips and drinks, along with different carnival games and other activities, such as face painting, with the help of Manville recreation.

This event helps bring awareness and acknowledgement to the many soldiers that have given up their lives to defend and fight for our country while remembering those who lost their lives during war. When questioned about the purpose behind this event, Coach Knitowski had said, “It is good to give back to the people who have given up the ultimate sacrifice for our country and giving back to the veterans within our community.”