Lions come to town, beat Manchester staff with hotly contested basketball touchdown
Even a pink flamingo joined the Dutch team! And Cross Country coach Sarah McCaffrey scored a two-point shot during the game, resulting in cheers from the student section.
by Marsha Chartrand
A touchdown in the final five seconds of last Friday’s basketball game put the iconic Detroit Lions alumni in a winning position, 38–35, over the Manchester Flying Dutch staff.
A touchdown? In a basketball game?
That’s how the Lions roll, and the Manchester staff graciously accepted defeat after a well-played game that looked like it would end up a 35–32 victory for the Dutch.
It was a fun night for players and spectators alike and it was a successful fundraiser for the MHS football team to help purchase new equipment and uniforms for next year. Autographs, photos, and $1 Manchester jerseys were popular items with the younger attendees, and fans got a taste of several sports — not only basketball and football, but some wrestling as well!
Totals are still being tallied, but the crowd was enthusiastic, the raffles and silent auctions were busy, and the after-party at the River Raisin Distillery was hopping.
Co-organizer Kate LaVigne said she was still on “cloud 9” on Sunday night over the great progress that was made in bridging the gap that she has seen existing between athletes and the community. “Friday night was an absolute success in that and so much more,“ she said. “Our athletes received overwhelming support and generosity from our community and I am proud that our student athletes, staff, and facilities were able to shine before the attendees.”
Head football coach Ben Pack commented, “The exact amount is yet to be determined; however, the success of the event went well beyond a dollar amount, by bringing the community together.”
LaVigne thanked all who supported her in this effort, especially Coach Pack, Coach Duffing, Melissa Vainner, Amelia Woods, Julia Feldkamp, Jill Corwin, and Jeff Fletcher for the tireless efforts that were vital to the event’s success. “And also Dr. Bezeau, Tracy Zigila, and Erin Collins for all they did on behalf of the school.”
Cub Scout Pack 421 presented the colors for the National Anthem.
The youth cheer team kept up their enthusiasm throughout the game.
Add a little wrestling into the mix … Some of our youngest “My Way“ wrestlers challenged Lions players.
All kids under 10 were invited onto the court to rush the Dutchmen for the final, successful TD attempt with just seconds left in the game.
The final score, 38–35. We aren’t sure exactly how that happened …
You must be logged in to post a comment Login