Five student athletes from GSHS's girls basketball team visited the club on Friday requesting financial support. Led by coach and assistant athletics director, Jordan Decrow, the young women spoke about their emotional growth and sense of belonging that comes from being part of a supportive and nurturing sports team.
The five young women - Kaylee, Mia, Jenna, Ivy, and Becca - were enthusiastic as they described the positive team culture that has helped them gain confidence and self-discipline, develop great friendships, and learn important lessons for life beyond the classroom. They also spoke of the financial needs of the team to support travel as they compete across the region, as well as the cost of uniforms and gear needed for the team.
Coach Decrow, a native of the Roaring Fork valley, described the challenges that confront all student athletes these days - decreased funding from the school district and increased costs for students' families to make up the difference. The reality of school funding across Colorado, based on a per pupil funding formula, is that school districts must focus their limited funds on instruction and teacher salaries; extracurricular programs like athletics must rely on fundraising to support competition and travel.
Decrow extended invitations to all upcoming basketball games. GSHS is hosting a tournament December 11-13. Please plan to attend these games, as well as many others throughout the season. Check out the schedule for details. And thanks for supporting our home teams!
Member who want to donate to the GSHS girls basketball team should send their contributions to Charlene Revoir, Treasurer. Please make checks payable the GS Rotary Foundation to ensure tax deductibility, and note “Girls Basketball” as your donation target.