Dragon Basketball Gives Back

Central High School Basketball's Meet the Dragons event had a special twist this year. The event was a food drive competition between the Dragons and Lady Dragons. Each team had a bin that attendees could put donations in. The boys basketball team had the most donations in the end.

Another special aspect of this event was the inclusion of elementary players. Basketball players from fourth grade to seniors participated in activities during the program.

"We wanted to make it more of a pep rally," Valerie Ellis, treasurer of the Lady Dragon Basketball Boosters, said. "The food drive provided a little competition and gave us the opportunity to give back to the community."

The donations went to Martinsburg's and Roaring Spring's food banks. This event and food drive were organized by the Boosters, including President Angie Diehl, who reached out to the food banks.

"The cars were stuffed. Completely full," Ellis said of the donations.

Meet the Dragons was held on Nov. 17 because basketball practice began on Nov. 18. Ellis saw the event as an opportunity to start the season off with some excitement while helping the community out right before the holidays.

All the players were introduced, and many activities were done. There was a shootout between the varsity teams, which the Lady Dragons won. They also won a "get loud" competition. The elementary school kids participated in a relay called "Dress a Senior," where they relayed adding clothing to a senior player.

"We had a really nice turnout," Ellis said.

The Lady Dragons will have Senior Night on Jan. 25. The team will also celebrate Pink Night on Jan. 27. The evening and cash raffle will benefit a local family.