There were some new Bulldogs on the basketball court this winter, as the Shady Side Academy Athletic Department launched fifth grade boys' and girls' basketball teams, which wrapped up their inaugural season on March 4.
A total of 23 boys and girls from the Junior School and Country Day School registered for the teams, which were coached by Country Day School PE teacher Dave Geyer and Junior School learning specialist Sean Wilson. Combined co-ed practices were held every Thursday afternoon in the Junior School gym, beginning right after winter break. The teams played several games on Saturday mornings in the Curry and Mellon Gyms on the Senior School campus against various recreational teams in the region. The boys played four games while the girls played three.
"It was fun watching the players practice and develop the concepts of the game of basketball and then put the concept into the game," said Geyer. "Some of the players were new to basketball and watching them learn skills and then score their first baskets in a game was thrilling!"
"It was great to get to know our fifth grade boys and girls outside of the classroom," added Wilson. "They did such a wonderful job coming together and forming a team in such a short time. We have a great bunch of young talented kids on the basketball court, and even better, they’re great kids."
Congratulations, Bulldogs, on a great inaugural season!