First AASC invitational Saturday at Mcdermont X
Since 2012, schools around Tulare County have competed in the All American Student Classic — an event created by long-time Porterville educator Dick Schlagel that puts students’ academic and athletic fitness to the test in a school-wide competition.
After the week-long event, which educators and students alike often point to as the highlight of their year, awards are handed out to the top performers in each grade level for ten events (five academic, five athletic) as well as for top overall performers in grades 5-8.
Now for the first time, this year’s top scorers from individual school competitions will compete against each other for county bragging rights at the All American Student Classic Invitational on Saturday at Mcdermont X in Lindsay.
“Conducting an incredible event of his nature has been a very deep passion of mine since 2012,” said Schlagel. “It is certainly another dream come true. We at AASC are extremely grateful for Mcdermont’s partnership.”
Clint Ashcraft, CEO of Mcdermont Venture, feels his 170,000 square foot facility dedicated to fun and physical activity is an ideal venue to host such an event.
“Here at Mcdermont X, we know that balance in life is the key to happy and healthy individuals and communities, and AASC promotes, celebrates, and honors wellrounded youth who excel in both academics and athletics,” said Ashcraft. “We are excited to be partnering with AASC in their first invitational.”
Event officials are expecting around 100 participants at the inaugural event from eight area schools: Pixley Elementary, Woodville Elementary, Strathmore Middle School, Lincoln Elementary (Exeter), Rocky Hill Elementary (Exeter), Wilson Elementary (Tulare), Mulcahy Middle School (Tulare) and Alpine Vista School (Tulare).
The competition will consist of six events — three academic and three athletic — instead of 10 events like at school-wide AASC competitions. Students will be tested on their knowledge in science, math and history as well as their performance in the 50-yard dash, rock climb, and obstacle course.
The obstacle course has become the signature event of the AASC, largely because no two are the same. School staff are challenged to create their own unique course suited to their individual sites and the interests of their students. Obstacle course elements at this year’s school events have featured gunny sack races, pool noodle fights, bounce houses and water tunnels.
“It’s the most fun event, both to do and to watch,” said AASC President Bob Pugh. “It’s also the most important, because any ties in previous events will be decided by final obstacle course times.”
Likewise, Mcdermont X will be designing their own course which, given the facility’s unique attractions like laser tag, bounce houses and the Flowrider, is generating anticipation among participants.
When asked for details about the course, Ashcraft was reluctant to spoil the surprise.
“I can’t reveal all of that. Come by on the 26th and join us and you’ll find out,” he said. “But I’ve heard what some of the other schools have done and we’re going to step up our game.”
Activities will start Saturday with registration at 8:15 a.m., followed by the first of the six competitions at 9 a.m., and family, friends and the public are encouraged to attend. Admission is $2 during the competition.