What’s recently happened?
Tri-Township High School (TTHS) Senior Basketball Star #30 Jayde Pryor reached a career milestone by scoring her 1,000th point during an away game at Hebron High School on December 13, 2024. The following day, the team returned to the Tiger Den for a game against North White High School, honoring Pryor for joining the 1,000-point club. She is only the second female player in TTHS/La Crosse High School history to achieve this feat.
“I’m really grateful I was given the opportunity to join the 1,000 point club. I hope I can encourage future Lady Tigers to reach for this goal and achieve it,” said Pryor.
“She has a newfound love for basketball, and it’s translated into joy on the court,” Porter said. “It’s very apparent in the way she plays. I feel that’s a direct reflection of my personality when I coach. My enthusiasm for the game and how much it means to me and my family has rubbed off on her, giving her a different perspective and a deeper love for the sport.”
Coach Christian Porter reflected on Pryor’s growth, despite having coached her for only one season.
Pryor’s scoring streak continued into the new year. After contributing 26 points in a win against River Forest High School on January 7, her career total now stands at 1,134.
The TTHS Music Department wrapped up 2024 on a festive note with its Christmas Concert on December 17. The evening featured delightful performances by the high school band, playing classics like “Jolly Old Saint Nicholas” and “I Saw Three Ships.” In collaboration with the middle school band, the ensemble also performed “Ukrainian Bell Carol,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and “Auld Lang Syne.”
The TTHS band participants included Mason Porch, Lillie Skidmore, Abby Jensen, Jocelyn Haynee, Hunter McGee, and Landon Pitts. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Wana Pizza was available for purchase at the concession stand during intermission, giving attendees a chance to enjoy refreshments while celebrating the season and the fantastic performances.
After returning from winter break on January 6, TTHS students quickly got back into the swing of things. With the highly anticipated Porter County Conference (PCC) Basketball Tournament just two weeks away, excitement is building throughout the school as teams prepare to showcase their Tiger Pride.
Adding to the excitement is the annual spirit competition, where participating schools choose themes and put their best sportsmanship on display. This year, the Tri-Township Student Council Spirit Committee selected the theme “Smurfs,” promising a fun and energetic display during the Boys Basketball team’s first game.
As the winter season unfolds, the TTHS community looks forward to cheering on its athletes and celebrating the school spirit that unites them all.
What’s coming up?
The Tiny Tigers Basketball program for Pre-K through third-grade students kicks off on Saturday, January 11 in the Wanatah gym. The program will host one combined session for all grades from 8 to 9 a.m. This engaging opportunity introduces young athletes to basketball fundamentals, promoting teamwork and enthusiasm for the sport. Additionally, the event serves as a fundraiser to support the basketball programs. Walk-ins are welcome, making it convenient for families to join on short notice.
Tri-Township Cheerleading is excited to host its annual Cheer Camp, this year themed “In Our Glow Era!” Open to students in grades Pre-K - 5, the camp offers a fun and energetic way for kids to learn cheer routines, build confidence, and prepare for an exciting performance.
The camp will run from Monday, February 10 through Thursday, February 13, from 2:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. in the Wanatah Cafeteria. The $35 registration fee includes a t-shirt, bow, and certificate, which will be distributed Thursday night. Participants will showcase their new skills during a halftime performance at the Junior Varsity game on Friday, February 14 at The Tiger Den in LaCrosse.
Registration packets were sent home on January 7, so families are encouraged to check backpacks if they haven’t received one. Completed forms and payments are due by February 5 to guarantee t-shirt and bow availability. Late sign-ups are allowed, but items may not be guaranteed.
Cheer Camp is a wonderful opportunity for young students to meet new friends, develop teamwork, and embrace school spirit.
The PCC Winter Sports Athletic Banquet is scheduled for Sunday, January 12, at 2 p.m. at the Porter County Expo Center. This annual event is a cornerstone of the PCC calendar, celebrating the dedication, sportsmanship, and achievements of local student-athletes.
The banquet will begin with a prayer led by Tri-Township Senior Cheerleader Caloe Peretti, blessing the food and offering good wishes to athletes, families, and coaches for the tournament ahead.
The Varsity Boys and Girls Basketball teams, as well as the cheerleading and dance squads, will attend. Conference President and South Central School Corporation Superintendent Ben Anderson will welcome attendees, acknowledge sponsors, honor the junior varsity tournament champions, and introduce the guest speaker, whose identity will be revealed at the banquet.
One of the most anticipated moments is the senior recognition ceremony, where graduating athletes are celebrated for their years of dedication. For TTHS, the seniors being honored include:
- Girls Basketball: Jayde Pryor and Sydney Hudson
- Cheerleading: Caloe Peretti, Taylor Tarter, and Grace Benedetti
- Boys Basketball: Kade Koselke, Chayse Boomfield, and Dillon Stewart
- Dance/Poms: Kennedy Cox and Grace Benedetti
Following the senior recognitions, attendees will enjoy a video montage of last year’s PCC highlights before the day culminates in the much-anticipated Varsity Basketball Tournament Draws, where teams will learn their matchups for the tournament.
Paired with a delicious meal catered by Birky Farm of Valparaiso, the banquet is set to inspire and energize everyone for the season ahead. TTHS continues to lead by example, embodying sportsmanship, teamwork, and school spirit. The community is ready to rally behind its athletes as they compete in the PCC Basketball Tournament.
Staff spotlight:
Lindsay Huhnke plays a vital role at TTHS as the office staff secretary. Her days are packed with responsibilities, from answering phones and managing attendance to assisting the dean and principal with various tasks. Her role ensures the smooth functioning of the school’s administrative operations.
Huhnke, a TTHS alumna herself, is in her second year working at TTHS and already feels connected to the school.
"I am proud to be a Tiger because of the family-like atmosphere and the opportunity to see all of our wonderful students daily," Huhnke said." Pre-K through 12 is all in one school now, which I think is pretty cool. Not a lot of schools can offer that, and many opportunities can come with everyone being on one campus. Our high school students are incredible mentors for the younger students and that plays a vital role of Tri-Township being seen as a ‘family.’"
Outside of work, Huhnke enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. A devoted sports mom, she loves cheering on her kids during their games and also finds time to golf with her husband, Brandon.
“In my free time, I enjoy watching my kids play sports. It's a huge part of who I am and who we are as a family,” Huhnke said.
Her family includes her husband, Brandon, and their two children, Kyle, a 16-year-old sophomore, and Emily, a 14-year-old eighth grader, both attending Tri-Township Schools. Rounding out their household are their two beloved dogs, Gunner and Rizzo.
Student spotlight:
Tyler Chambers is a senior whose high school journey is coming to a close in a few months.
Chambers shines both on the golf course and the baseball field, where he values the camaraderie of his teammates and the pride of being part of something bigger than himself.
Beyond sports, Chambers is an active member of Leo's Club, where he finds joy in giving back to the community. His involvement reflects his commitment to making a positive impact on others.
When it comes to academics, his favorite teacher is Matt Wellsand.
"There’s always something fun and engaging to learn in his class, and he’s also funny,” Chambers said.
He enjoys physics with Wellsand and looks forward to lunch, especially when the iconic Tiger Bowl is on the menu.
Freshman year Homecoming banner painting is Chambers’ favorite memory of high school.
Looking ahead, Chambers plans to join the Navy, a goal he has held close since childhood.
"It’s been a goal of mine since I was little, and I’m excited to take this next step into my life,” Chambers said. "I’m proud to be a Tiger because I have the opportunity to play sports with people I’ve known since I was young, it adds to the family aspect of Tri-Township.”