A school in Texas has taken a new path with a first-ever, one-of-a-kind grandmothers-only basketball competition. The social-media buzzworthy contest, played with full vigor, emotion, and school, involved grandmothers dribbling, grandmothers shooting, and grandmothers cheering each other on, demonstrating that age is merely a matter of statistics regarding love for hoops.
The school administration proposed the idea for such a unique activity to create a participatory and inviting activity for all in the community. With the Granny Basketball League‘s growing national success, the school administration saw a chance to implement a similar activity in its community gymnasium. Its purpose was straightforward: to provide exercise for older women and develop camaraderie and enjoyment.
“We wanted to celebrate these amazing women, who have done such a lot for their communities and for their family,”
Added the school’s athletic director.
“And a perfect way to celebrate them, with the joy of basketball?”
The real game was no less exciting. Grannies with mixed fitness and backgrounds united, utilizing their skills in friendly competition on a hoops court. Others played with a background in youth basketball, but for most, it was a first-time court encounter.
In contrast to the competitive atmosphere of the game, everyone kept a lighthearted and laughing disposition. Cheers filled the room when one grandmother shot a three-pointer, and a sneaky steal of a pass in a surprising move for a defending player captured everyone’s attention. Most visitors were amazed at the players’ determination and vigor and that fitness and enjoyment have no age restriction.
The activity is one of the growing trends for older women who participate in basketball. Established in 2005, the Granny Basketball League has motivated U.S. and Canadian women to stay active and social through the activity. Players utilize a variation of 1920s basketball, with toned-down rules for easier joints but with competitive competition.
The league now comprises over 600 players in 52 teams in various states. Most even participate in charity events, employing basketball as a form of community service and an opportunity to serve society.
Apart from competition in court, the role played was larger in uniting communities. The game involved grandmothers’ grandkids cheering with them and students acting as assistants and referees.
”I never dreamed I’d ever see my grandmother play a game of basketball,”
one student exclaimed.
“She was terrific out there! It’s terrific to see her enjoying herself and proving that one is never too old to try new things.”
The school will make it an annual activity to involve even larger groups in future years.
The success of such an activity can mean that future schools and community centers will organize similar events. All signs, such as positive feedback and encouragement from observers and participants, verify that Grandmother’s basketball is not yet over.
And for the players? They’re ready for whatever happens next. Several have even asked about competing in an actual Granny Basketball league to make a living off it.
“We lived for a week,”
one of the participating grandmothers exclaimed.
“I never dreamed I’d ever play basketball again, but I don’t ever want to stop.”
The Texas high school’s first-ever grandmothers-only basketball game was a slam dunk success, proving that passion, sportsmanship, and a sense of community are ageless.