January 13, 2025
With sneakers skidding and screeching, ‘high knees’ warm-up drills, free-throw from the point competitions, and a brief skills assessment, the Sagamok EHS (Espanola High School) students hit the court to challenge the Espanola Paper Kings to a game of basketball. It was immediately apparent that there was an exciting and friendly rivalry as the hard-working Sagamok students, and the group of Paper Kings, glided with swift movements across the glossy, polished floor of the Espanola High School gymnasium. Each team battled for the win during a Lunch ‘N Learn Intramural Sports Session on January 13, from 11:10-11:55! This was the second of three Intramural Sports Activities scheduled for EHS students. If you missed this one and the Volleyball session in December, there is one more on February 24 to cap off the winter doldrums. Come on out!
On this occasion of the collaborative partnership between Espanola Paper Kings and Sagamok Anishnawbek, Laura McMeekin-Clarke was once again on site and providing leadership to the attendees. Laura has been responsible for organizing the high school intramural events, offering an interactive way to support students from Sagamok through the opportunity for physical activity, peer mentoring, health and wellness, and let’s not forget –the pizza lunch! She works with Josephine Toulouse, High School Support Worker for Sagamok Education, to bring these dynamic programs and fill the lunch break void with positive outlets. Every EHS student is invited and welcome to come out and participate in the chosen sport of the day, socialize with peers and Paper Kings players, and finish it all off by enjoying a complimentary pizza lunch, beverage, and dessert before heading to class.
The basketball game commenced with great enthusiasm and healthy competition between the teams. Joining from the Paper Kings were Rampersad #8 from Clarington, Galante #13 from Buffalo, NY, Guthrie #25 from Bracebridge (attended EHS 2 years ago for a portion of his Grade 12), and Pethick #4 from Barrie. With a record number of students attending this lunchbreak event -- roughly 22 --two teams were created to include a balance of EHS students and Paper Kings players. And there was more than enough pizza to go around! Is the score irrelevant when you can dine then dash? Or was it dash then dine? For all intents and purposes, the EHS team won. Hmmm, but they were both EHS teams…. Everyone comes out a winner when you engage in activity that bolsters physical and mental health, allows you to work as a member of a team and contribute to the greater good, offers a place to feel included and welcomed, and a safe, fun environment for socializing and self-discovery. In the end, everyone agreed, it was a slam dunk of an event!
