Panthers brighten Christmas for two local families
After having to put their efforts on hold in 2020 because of COVID-19, the Ridgeland Panthers boys’ basketball team were able to restart its annual program of helping out some area families late last month.
The players “adopted” two families from Rossville Elementary School and got to play Santa for four children.
After purchasing new gifts, the coaches and players, along with their parents and families, met at the Ridgeland gym to wrap the presents as a team. They set the mood by trading out their usual pre-game warm-up music for some traditional Bing Crosby holiday tunes.
“Playing basketball has always been special to me, but this year it was more than just a sport,” said senior Price Ray. “We had the opportunity to do something for others and make a difference just as much off the court as on the court.”
After the wrapping party, the Ridgeland contingent headed out to deliver the packages and spend time with some excited youngsters before heading to a local restaurant to fellowship and enjoy a meal as a team.
“It was great,” senior Kyan Clark said. “I really enjoyed being able to help our community. We are like a family and we want everyone to know that our family cares.”
“We enjoyed giving back to the community that supports us so much (and represents) who we are as Panthers,” fellow senior Ben Birchfield added. “We appreciate them and (we’re) glad we could help these future Panthers have a great Christmas.”
Head coach Matt King said the project is always an enjoyable experience that everyone was excited to get to be a part of once again.
“I’m really thankful we got the opportunity to do this again this year,” he explained. “I feel our players get as much from this as the families do. Watching the players interact with the kids is something special and I know everyone benefited from the experience. Giving back to the community is something everyone can do.”