Exclusive Elks Hoop Shoot Champions Honored at Hall of Fame
Celebrating Youth Basketball Talent
The spirit of perseverance and hard work was palpable as the finest youth free-throw shooters gathered at Wintrust Arena, illustrating their dedication to the game. Recently, the Elks Hoop Shoot competition showcased young athletes' skills and determination as they vied for national titles in three age groups for both boys and girls.
The Champions' Journey
Out of 1,513 successful free throws made during the event, six exceptional champions emerged, displaying the tenacity and skill that defines the Elks Hoop Shoot. For the 8 to 9-year-old category, Carrigan Price demonstrated remarkable skill, securing her victory with a score of 24 out of 25 and later 21 out of 25 in a thrilling shoot-off. Paxton Plourd matched her feat perfectly by scoring 25 out of 25 in the boys' division.
Age Groups and Winners
In the 10 to 11-year-olds category, Jacinta Patel triumphed with an impressive 23 out of 25 shots, while her counterpart Cole Cavenee shone with 24 out of 25. The 12 to 13-year-olds saw Grace Wilhelm earning the championship title with a score of 23, and Cooper Thompson clinched his victory with a perfect 25 out of 25, followed by a flawless performance in a shoot-off.
Legacy of the Elks Hoop Shoot
All six champions will have their achievements memorialized at the Elks Hoop Shoot exhibit located in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. In addition to receiving this prestigious honor, the champions will visit the Hall as special guests, celebrating their accomplishments with pride. Throughout the event, participants engaged in camaraderie through trading cards and attending a Chicago Cubs game, fostering friendships that extend beyond the court.
With over 50 years of tradition, the Elks Hoop Shoot, funded by the Elks National Foundation, continues to encourage young talents to excel in sports while instilling important life lessons. The event emphasizes persistence, providing children a platform to showcase their abilities while forming lasting relationships with peers from across the country.
Experiences from Past Finalists
Alumni of the Hoop Shoot, like Talmai-Aguirre Nickerson, recognize the invaluable experiences gained through their participation. Having attended nationals multiple times in her youth, she reflects on how the competition has a lasting impact. Her daughter, Braylyn Nickerson, followed in her footsteps, representing her home state, reinforcing the event’s legacy of nurturing talent and building character.
Community Support and Engagement
Support from local Lodges is crucial, as noted by Nicole Dauphinee, whose son Jerry represented Maine in the boy's 8 to 9 division. The encouragement and enthusiasm from their communities serve to enhance the overall experience for the participants. Regardless of their rankings, the spirit of sportsmanship prevails among competitors, filled with smiles and support from the audience.
The complete results from this year's Hoop Shoot can be found at the Elks National Foundation’s website, and anticipation builds as preparations for the following year’s tournaments begin across various communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Elks Hoop Shoot?
The Elks Hoop Shoot is a national free-throw contest for youth, promoting skill development and sportsmanship in basketball.
How many champions were crowned in this year's competition?
Six champions were crowned in the recent Elks Hoop Shoot event.
What age groups participated in the Elks Hoop Shoot?
The competition included participants in three age groups: 8-9, 10-11, and 12-13.
Where will the champions' names be displayed?
The champions' names will be displayed in the Elks Hoop Shoot exhibit at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
How long has the Elks Hoop Shoot been held?
The Elks Hoop Shoot has been a tradition for over 50 years, encouraging youth involvement in basketball.
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