“March Madness” has inflicted St. Mary's Catholic Community School in Crown Point. The school hosted their annual 3 on 3 March Madness tournament. It is a fun night of camaraderie and competition. Students put together their teams of four. Brackets consisted of 5th and 6th graders playing each other. Seventh and 8th grade played in the second bracket. Sixth grade team "Gender Equality" won the 5th/6th grade bracket. The team consisted of players Kailynn Clark, Addison Kammer, Jack Lawyer, and Gabe Vivo. Sixth grader, Jack Lawyer said, "We thought it was really great playing as a team. The competition was steep, but everyone played their best." Eighth graders Robby Ballentine, Mathew Zdanowics, JJ Mullally, and Bryce Yerga made up the winning 8th grade team, "The Tropics". As a team they commented, "This 3 on 3 tournament is a great way for kids to connect through basketball. It's a great opportunity to practice sportsmanship, develop character, and show respect."
St, Mary’s is grateful to Andrean High School for lending the use of their gym. Former St. Mary’s students who currently attend high school at Andrean and Crown Point served as referees. Two of the referees, St. Mary’s graduates, Jake Brown and Tommy Sanborn are college athletes. “Our younger students really look up to the young men and women who come back to help us run the tournament every year. They are great role models,” said principal, Tom Ruiz.
St. Mary Catholic Community School in Crown Point was opened in 1872. The school offers grade levels Junior Pre-Kindergarten (for three year olds) through eight and is the largest school in the Diocese of Gary. St. Mary’s faculty teaches a rich curriculum supported by leading-edge technology. All students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities such as Chess Club, Craft Club, athletics, academic teams, Spanish Club, Science Olympiad, Scouts, Environmental Club, and more. To learn more about St. Mary’s School, visit stmarycp.org/school.