FALCONER – The ninth annual Hoops for Hospice charity basketball game at Falconer Central School raised over $5,000 Thursday night during the JV and Varsity Girls basketball game.
Falconer Girls Varsity Basketball Coach Emily Scholeno said all the proceeds go to the Chautauqua County Hospice Group. This year the fundraiser was held in honor of Kay Patterson, who recently passed away following a battle with cancer. Scholeno said the dedication means a lot of Kay’s family, especially one JV Player Kayla Jo Lynn.
“You can tell she (Kayla Jo Lynn) has looked forward to this,” said Scholeno. “The whole family has, it has helped keep them busy in a time of sadness, it has kept them going.”
During the game, each JV Player took the court in honor of someone in their life who was effected by cancer. Kayla Jo of course took the hardwood in honor of Kay, her grandmother.
“There is four daughters and nine grandchildren, and Kayla Jo is the second to the youngest, she is 13,” said Tammy Yager, one of Kay Patterson’s daughters.” She (Kayla Jo) was very closer with nanny, as all of the grandchildren were.”
Yager said Kayla Joe was very close to her grandmother and the game is a great way to honor her life.
“She is being supported by her teammates and playing in honor of her nanny tonight,” said Yager. “During her illness and her passing, we kept emotions going forward planning the event, communicating with people, getting t-shirts made, advertising on social media and giving us something constructive to do.”
Yager said she is forever grateful for the community support.
“It (the support) is heartwarming but it is not surprising,” explained Yager. “This is how the Falconer Community comes together.”
Thursday’s game also served as senior night for the varsity team who honored Senior Kaylee Vincent.
There were a variety of basket raffles and baked goods available. Scholeno said anyone still looking to donate can contact her at Falconer Central School at (716) 665-6624.
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