DECEMBER 18, 2023

Another key task to prepare for the event was recruiting volunteers to join the team that would oppose the Wizards at the game. Alonge-Watz said this was one of the easiest aspects of planning, thanks to the overwhelming interest. Dubbed “The Magical Millbrook Blazers,” the group consisted of faculty and staff who were brave enough to face off against the professional basketball team.

The game was full of excitement, laughter, and surprises, as the Wizards entertained the crowd with their skills, tricks and jokes. They also interacted with the audience, inviting some fans to join them on the court and giving out autographs and high-fives. Though the Wizards always win every game, the Blazers did their best to keep up and even scored some impressive points – such as a half-court shot by James Eades, Millbrook’s microcomputer system specialist.

Eades was one of the first to sign up after enjoying a Harlem Wizards show as a spectator in the past.

“I am an avid sports guy and couldn't pass up the opportunity to play basketball and have fun in the school environment,” said Eades. “The Wizards support a wonderful cause, and on top of that, they really put on an entertaining show.”

Millbrook senior Robert Smith took on the task of coaching the Blazers.

“The game was pretty stressful at times, since I had to make quick substitutions between quarters and skits,” he said. “It felt good to help give teachers and staff a chance to be in a fun, competitive environment, though, and it was a great atmosphere.” 

Senior class president Sarah Marchant initially expressed skepticism about the turnout but was pleasantly surprised by the enthusiastic response from the community.

“I went to a Wizards game in fifth grade, and I haven’t seen as much energy at a sports event like that since,” she said. “I thought the turnout wouldn't be very high, but I was proven wrong. Seeing the signs outside that led students and their families to the lobby brought me back to when I was a young student myself, and we ended up doing really well.”

The event netted more than $4,000 after expenses, validating Marchant’s remark. Alonge-Watz said that the most valuable outcome, however, was the way it seemed to ignite a sense of community togetherness.

Eades agreed:

“Based on the amount of laughter and smiles around the gymnasium, everyone in attendance was a winner that night!”

Sponsored by the Millbrook Rotary Club, Jr. Interact is an organization that aims to serve the school and community through various projects and activities. Some of the club’s activities include raising funds for local charities, donating winter clothing and making sandwiches for Hope on a Mission, an organization that serves the homeless.

Moffitt said that this particular holiday activity was a favorite with the students

“Donating the cards and books to Angels of Light was definitely the students’ favorite holiday activity this year,” she said. “They even decided to help more by selling candy grams that students can send to one another for a $1 donation. The proceeds will go to Angels of Light.”

Moffitt also expressed her pride in the Jr. Interact students and said that their involvement with the charity is just the latest example of their good work throughout the district and community.

“The students in this club are very selfless,” she said. “All of the work they do is to help and better their community and make a difference in the lives of others.”

The Jr. Interact club currently has 15 student members and is always looking for more. CLICK HERE to learn more about the club and how you can get involved.

To learn more about Angels of Light please visit https://www.angelsoflighthv.org.

Find out about all that Millbrook students, teachers, staff and administrators are doing to help local families and spread joy and kindness this holiday season!