The rivalry between the Kennedy Rockets and Memorial Minutemen basketball teams is helping keep hunger on the sidelines.
On January 19, the basketball teams from both schools asked fans to not just come root them on, but to bring canned food or non-perishable food donations. Those donations will go to help keep the EISD Food Pantry stocked.
“Our community has a sense of pride when it comes to helping each other,” says Kennedy girls’ basketball Coach Amado Luis. “There has been support around every corner. To be part of that is extremely special.”
The efforts by both schools collected more than 400 items for the EISD Food Pantry. Memorial High School boys’ basketball coach Courtney Jackson considers it a small glimpse of the unity, generosity, and social responsibility within Edgewood community. As a coach, it makes him incredibly proud of his players.
“It shows the players empathy, kindness, and a sense of community beyond basketball,” says Jackson. “When players express a desire to support their classmates, it indicates that they value relationships, teamwork, and making a positive impact beyond just their athletic performance. It also suggests that they understand the importance of being part of a larger community and are willing to contribute to its well-being, which are valuable qualities both on and off the court.”
The Rockets and the Minutemen boys’ basketball teams end the regular season with another face-off, February 12 at the Edgewood Gym. As for the girls’ teams, Kennedy ends the season February 6 on the road against La Vernia and Memorial ends the season February 6 at home against Fox Tech.