UPDATE: Local youth basketball players showcased their skills in the annual Hoop Shoot free throw contest at Hall Gym on January 11, 2025, hosted by the Salisbury Elks Lodge #699 and Salisbury Parks and Recreation. With 22 contestants aged 8 to 13 taking part, excitement filled the atmosphere as these talented athletes aimed for the district finals.
The competition was fierce as participants shot a total of 25 free throws—ten in the first round and fifteen in the final round. The top performers earned a spot in the district competition, set to take place in High Point on January 24.
Winners included:
– **Boys 8-9**: 1st Bryson Donis, 2nd Casen Doby
– **Boys 10-11**: 1st Graham Davis, 2nd Blake Adams
– **Boys 12-13**: 1st Jaxon Harris, 2nd Frank Adams
– **Girls 8-9**: 1st Amyiah Terzi, 2nd Jordyn Jones
– **Girls 10-11**: 1st Keianna Holiday, 2nd Merritt Menees
– **Girls 12-13**: 1st Adalynn Kendall
Jim Oliver, the Hoop Shoot coordinator for the Salisbury Elks, stated, “The event was great, the competition fierce, and the kids did well under pressure.”
A special highlight of the day was the recognition of Marile Steele, a 2025 National Hoop Shoot Finalist, who represented Salisbury in Chicago in April. A shadow box commemorating her achievements was presented by Kenny Martin, past exalted ruler and hoop shoot coordinator. “We are so very proud of Marile,” said Debbie Martin, publicity chair, noting her leadership as she returned to volunteer with her father, Ryan.
The shadow box, filled with memorable photos and stats from her Chicago trip, now hangs proudly at the Salisbury Elks Lodge on South Main Street.
As the district competition approaches, winners will aim to advance further to state and regional contests. The ultimate goal? The National Hoop Shoot Finals scheduled for April 16-19, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
With local talent shining brightly, the community is eagerly anticipating the next round of competition. Stay tuned for updates as these young athletes strive for greatness!