Intramural basketball takes Bradley by storm

The following story was written by a student on the staff of The Jaguar Times as part of Hilliard Bradley High School’s Journalism Production course.

by Delaney Warner

Student Life Editor

The JV Dropouts posing for a picture after a big win. Photo by Ryan Bailey (12).

The gym of Memorial Middle School is filled with the sounds of bouncing basketballs every weekend. During the winter months students get their teams together and prepare to compete every weekend. Why are they competing? So they can be the top team in Bradley’s intramural basketball league.

Many students absolutely love playing intramural basketball. Many students enjoy having an activity with friends. Neil Reddy (12) says “I get to have a fun time playing with friends and expand my basketball skills.” Although his team hasn’t seen great success this season, they still enjoy playing the game once a week.

Other students view the club as a fun way to workout with friends. The game of basketball moves incredibly quickly, proving as a challenging workout. Shayan Manoharan (12) says “it promotes a healthy lifestyle and has a fun competitive environment.” His team is currently the top team in the league, suffering only one loss this season. They look to keep competing in the coming weeks to keep their top spot.

Intramural basketball isn’t only for those competing in. Some Bradley students have even come to spectate the games and cheer on their friends. Logan Calabrese (12) says “the competitiveness was off the charts!” He elaborates “I witnessed the game winning shot that was a buzzer beater.” The intramural games certainly serve as entertaining, for many take it quite competitively. Many teams have even created Instagram accounts to advertise their teams and post their standings. Every intramural game is free to attend.

Although it is not possible to join the league this season, intramural sports will continue into next year as well. Mr. Gmerek, math teacher and coordinator of intramural sports says, “students should participate in intramural basketball because it’s an opportunity to play with and against their friends in a casual and competitive environment.” He adds “and in the cold winter months it is an excellent way to get exercise when normally students would be… probably just sitting on the couch.” Mr. Gmerek has even hired actual high school refs to officiate the matches. This increases the competitive aspect of the games, while maintaining a friendly environment. Intramural basketball is a great way to get involved and stay active during the winter.

If you find yourself free during the winter months, consider joining intramural basketball. Rather you’re playing or spectating, it is always sure to be a good time.