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A dandy night at Tolono

Posted by: Fred Kroner

Saturday, December 6, 2008 12:41 AM

TOLONO -- I like the scheduling that took place on Friday in conjunction with Unity's boys' basketball home-opener against Chrisman at the Rocket Center.

At halftime of the junior varsity contest, two teams of sixth-graders took the court for a 5-minute game. For those who don't need more popcorn or candy, it's a better alternative during the break than sitting on the bleachers with nothing to watch while awaiting the start of a new half.

I couldn't tell you the score, but I know it was enjoyable to watch those sixth-graders. I'd forgotten how much they grow between then and their senior years in high school!

Not to be outdone, at halftime of the varsity game, Unity's dance team put on a showy performance. I'm not qualified to be a critic, but it appeared to be an energetic and vibrant performance.

If I were a critic, I would give it two thumbs up.

The more students a school can involve on Game Night the better. I heard more than one person comment about how good the band sounded, too.

It was a fun and enjoyable night which offered more than basketball for those in attendance.

As for the games, they started almost identically. Unity's JV team led 15-2 after one quarter and the varsity built a 16-2 lead after one quarter. Each Rocket team was victorious. The varsity wound up with a 57-34 victory.

Here's hoping other schools follow the lead and feature as many of their students as possible at home events, even if they are not involved in athletics.