So Elise got chosen at school to shoot free throws at the Ankeny High School Womens Basketball Game. So tonight Jacob, Elise, Cameron and I went to the game. Elise did not play until halftime so the first 2 quarters went by. I have never seen Basketball played quite like that. The score at the end of the 2nd quarter was 20 to 12 Ankeny and I am sure that people were on the ground more than there were points on the board. I think that the girls were playing tackle basketball. There were 10 fouls by the 2nd quarter as well. Elise shot some baskets as well as 2 students from every class at Crocker Elementry, so there were Kids covering the basketball floor. I took some of this time to look at the High School surroundings. I have been informed that most High School students go to the game to meet friends and not to watch the game. When I was in school I went to play in the Band and watch the game not hang with friends.The stand was filled with teenagers talking on the phone and texting on cell phones. There were people moving all over the p[lace and you couldn’t watch the next quarter of the game. I am mostly anti-cell phone and can not understand the need for one prior to having a career, but I am judgemental and want to think that High School is simpler like I remember it, but I am afraid it is no longer. As I move to my 10 year High School Reunion this summer I am glad that I was not in High School today and I hope it changes by the time my children are there. I am sure that it probably will, but who knows if it will be for the better.
On a Simpler Note it snowed as we left the game and We all caught snowflakes in our mouths and ran like the wind. That was truly the best part of the evening.
Caught snowflakes in your mouths and ran like the wind… I love these words! I see it and taste it. –Dan
Some insightful comments there young nephew. I too do not see what the great value is with all the world’s cell phones and how today’s youth use them but I’m from an older generation. A reflective piece with a good title. Uncle Jim
How did Elise’s basket shooting go? Did she enjoy it and feel good about it? Was it tied to a fundraiser–or just to get elementary parents into the high school?
And yes, high school is high tech and social. Life is continual change. Encourage imagination and creative, unprogrammed play. Don’t forget your sweetones are my investment in the future.
You’re right. Kids don’t need cell phones.
It was a ploy to guilt parents to going to the game. They at least let Jacob and Elise in free so we were only out $5.00. Elise shot well and was really excited about it so I really went for her.
It was “Spirit Night” for their elementary school. Before the game their principal sold ice cream which was to make money for their school, and they were all encouraged to wear their school colors (marroon and gold) and they had a designated area to be spirited in (sit).