Celebrating (continued)

thanks to weekly practice after school—they grow more confident. “It’s not about the wins or losses,” he explains. “It’s having the opportunity to invite family and friends to come see them play.”

“Before a game, there’s a buzz in the air,” he smiles. “They tell me, ‘Mr. Cuddy, my uncles are coming! My grandparents will be here!’”

There are more ways for students to participate than just shooting baskets. They can join the Boosters to make announcements and keep score of the game, volunteer to sing the national anthem, dress up as Cotting’s beloved mascot Frankie the Falcon to dance their way across Manzo Court or brandish a set of blue and gold pom poms for the Cheer Squad.

“When we take center court, the energy in the gym is electric,” says Cheer Squad coach Melissa Mulvey.

“Every time the cheerleaders command the crowd, our voices are powerful and the enthusiasm can’t be beat.”

The first basketball game of the season also coincides with the vocational department’s Wares Fair, which showcases handmade products that display students’ skill development. This year’s selection of jewelry, ceramics, soap, wooden ornaments and “mystery kits” flew off the shelves, as did hand-knit items generously donated by an alumni family.

While the opening game may have come and gone, Cotting’s basketball season is far from over. In fact, you can catch a rematch between students and alumni on March 4. “We’ll figure out a game plan to win this time,” Mr. Cuddy promises. “We’re looking forward to playing them again.”

View the full schedule at bit.ly/ScheduleBB22