The world-famous Harlem Wizards basketball team played a sold-out show in October at Churchville-Chili Middle School and helped raise $6,400 for the student council. It was a grand slam event, featuring a rivalry between the Wizards and the home team of C-C administrators, staff and teachers — the C-C Hoop Stars. Also on the court, ably representing the district were the members of the high school Unified basketball team. The Unified players wowed visitors and viewers alike with their talent and sportsmanship.
The Harlem Wizards treated audience members to a mind-bending display of hoops expertise, sometimes at the expense of the Hoop Stars, who did their best against the overwhelming odds. The evening was fun for all and a great success for the Middle School Student Council, which works to build school spirit and develop leadership skills. Student council members also plan and organize monthly activities and special events for their peers.
“The support from the Churchville-Chili community was enormous,” said District Superintendent Lori Orologio, who captained the Hoop Stars. “It was great to see so many families, neighbors and friends come out for an evening of fun together. The folks in our district are champions for our young people. They are extraordinary partners for us in everything we do in our schools.”
In preparation for the big game, two of the Harlem Wizards’ ambassadors visited the Middle School earlier that afternoon and held character-building assemblies for the entire student population. Wizards Sarge (Roscoe Johnson) and Road Runner (James Tyndal) entertained, educated and excited the crowds. Students vied for the chance to assist the pair, and the roars of enthusiastic cheers and laughter were actually a little overwhelming. Sarge, a six-year veteran of the Wizards, said, “We’re busy all the time, always moving. We travel everywhere, every night. It’s crazy sometimes, but I really do it for the kids. Working with young people is what makes my job fun.”
Founded in 1962 with the goal of creating show basketball even better than the Harlem Globetrotters, the Harlem Wizards have played all 50 states and more than 25 foreign countries. They have helped raise over $25 million for schools and nonprofits.
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