Story by: Austin Fleskes
The crowd cheers as another dunk is scored. More students rush the hoop, flying through the air trying to score the best dunk. Judges, standing on the sidelines, watch as shots are bounced off the hoop or sunk in.
On Nov. 12, students, parents, and teachers alike packed half the bleachers, and filled the gym with cheering and applause. The audience gathered to support TRHS principal Chris Tabeling, who has recently been dealing with medical concerns.
The event raised more than $2,600 for Tabeling and his family, according to French teacher Olivia Holland, who was part of the planning group for the event.
“It feels good to be here to support something important,” said senior Jake Hesse, who was playing with the band during Winter Madness
“This is a perfect example of what the Grizzly family stands for; healthy competition for a heartfelt cause. We have unwavering support for one another. I’m so proud to be part of this community,” said science teacher Beth Radefeld.
But no one was more touched than Tabeling himself, who said, “Not a day has passed where my family and I have not been reminded of what an incredible community ThunderRidge is. The Winter Madness night was a very emotional night for me and my wife (our children were not able to attend). Much like the day I walked back in the front doors, seeing the number of people at Winter Madness was overwhelming. Our family is so grateful to have the support of so many in the ThunderRidge community. While some were not able to attend the Winter Madness, they have sent their support and well wishes. Simply put, there is no place like ThunderRidge anywhere else. It is because of the great people in this community that I love coming to work every day. A simple thank you does not seem like enough, but I am certain I will have the opportunity to pay it forward. Thank you ThunderRidge!”
The crowd cheers as another dunk is scored. More students rush the hoop, flying through the air trying to score the best dunk. Judges, standing on the sidelines, watch as shots are bounced off the hoop or sunk in.
On Nov. 12, students, parents, and teachers alike packed half the bleachers, and filled the gym with cheering and applause. The audience gathered to support TRHS principal Chris Tabeling, who has recently been dealing with medical concerns.
The event raised more than $2,600 for Tabeling and his family, according to French teacher Olivia Holland, who was part of the planning group for the event.
“It feels good to be here to support something important,” said senior Jake Hesse, who was playing with the band during Winter Madness
“This is a perfect example of what the Grizzly family stands for; healthy competition for a heartfelt cause. We have unwavering support for one another. I’m so proud to be part of this community,” said science teacher Beth Radefeld.
But no one was more touched than Tabeling himself, who said, “Not a day has passed where my family and I have not been reminded of what an incredible community ThunderRidge is. The Winter Madness night was a very emotional night for me and my wife (our children were not able to attend). Much like the day I walked back in the front doors, seeing the number of people at Winter Madness was overwhelming. Our family is so grateful to have the support of so many in the ThunderRidge community. While some were not able to attend the Winter Madness, they have sent their support and well wishes. Simply put, there is no place like ThunderRidge anywhere else. It is because of the great people in this community that I love coming to work every day. A simple thank you does not seem like enough, but I am certain I will have the opportunity to pay it forward. Thank you ThunderRidge!”