The weekend was packed with exciting youth sports activities across various communities. Bowling, soccer, basketball, and gymnastics events showcased the talents of young athletes. At the Sunset Bowling Center, juniors demonstrated impressive scores, with Matthew Chavez leading the pack. In Rathdrum, indoor soccer and basketball matches saw spirited competition among teams like Twisty Jet Planes and Edward Jones. Post Falls Parks and Recreation hosted a series of basketball games for different age groups, while Avant Coeur's gymnastics team excelled at the Top Gun Challenge in Hillsboro, Oregon. Additionally, Hayden Recreation featured multiple basketball games, highlighting standout performances by players from Bighouse Automotive and Summit Technology Group. Real Life Sports also organized several basketball tournaments for various age divisions, culminating in thrilling matchups.
Bowling enthusiasts gathered at the Sunset Bowling Center where young bowlers displayed remarkable skills. Among the junior boys, Matthew Chavez stood out with an exceptional high scratch game score of 268, followed closely by Owen Perry with 267. Abby Kuespert led the junior girls with a score of 190. Notably, several participants achieved multiple 200+ games, showcasing consistent performance. The event highlighted the competitive spirit and growing talent in local bowling.
In Rathdrum, winter sports activities brought together young athletes for both soccer and basketball matches. Indoor soccer saw engaging games between teams such as Twisty Jet Planes and Merlin’s Comedy Club, with players scoring multiple goals. Basketball games for fifth and sixth-grade students were equally competitive, with Panhandle Contracting and Lake City Auto Care emerging victorious. These matches not only provided entertainment but also fostered teamwork and sportsmanship among the young participants.
Post Falls Parks and Recreation organized a comprehensive basketball schedule for various age groups. First and second-grade girls and boys engaged in lively matches, with standout performances from teams like Peck & Peck Excavating and Goldenwest Credit Union. Third and fourth-grade girls showed impressive point totals, particularly Emma Cornett from Coeur d'Alene Marine Sports, who scored 22 points. Fifth and sixth-grade boys and girls also competed fiercely, with notable contributions from players like Nyla Cornett and Jathaniel Whitmire. The event underscored the importance of early sports participation in building athletic skills.
Avant Coeur's compulsory boys gymnastics team traveled to Hillsboro, Oregon, for the Top Gun Challenge, where they delivered commendable performances. Lochlan McGinnis tied for fifth on the vault, while Jakob Clinton and Kason Dellara achieved high scores on pommel horse and vault. These achievements reflect the rigorous training and dedication of the gymnasts and their coaches. The competition provided valuable experience and exposure for the young athletes, preparing them for future challenges.
Hayden Recreation's basketball events featured numerous matches across different age groups. Younger players from Bighouse Automotive and Ziply Fiber demonstrated strong skills, with several players scoring double digits. Older groups, including fifth to seventh-grade girls and boys, showcased more advanced play. Teams like ProShine Detail and Trinity Co-Op recorded significant victories, highlighting the depth of talent within the community. These games emphasized the development of fundamental basketball skills and the joy of competition.
Real Life Sports hosted a series of youth basketball tournaments, providing platforms for teams to compete and showcase their abilities. Matches ranged from first/second-grade divisions to fifth/sixth-grade divisions, featuring intense gameplay and notable individual performances. Teams like the Blizzards and Unstoppables dominated their respective categories, while others like the Flaming Hoops and Aces put up strong fights. The tournaments served as excellent opportunities for young athletes to gain experience and build confidence on the court.
The weekend's sports events not only highlighted the athletic prowess of young participants but also reinforced the values of teamwork, perseverance, and fair play. Through these competitions, communities came together to celebrate the achievements of their young athletes, fostering a supportive environment that encourages continued growth and development in sports.