By Woodrow Polston
Van-Far packed the high school gymnasium last week for the 2023 Court warming ceremony. In the first game of the night, the Lady Indians battled the Wellsville /Middletown Lady Tigers, who proved to be fierce competitors. Prior to half-time, there was a brief tie of 11-11, but the Lady Tigers consistently took possession of the ball and stacked up the points. Final score in the girls game was 60-39 as the Lady Tigers secured the victory. In the boys game, there was equal competition, but the Indians worked harder and smarter than the Tigers. As they held on to their productive energy, the Indians finished strong with nearly double the points of the Tigers, The final score was 73-42.
During half time of the boys game, children were able to participate in the ‘Chuck-a-Duck’ game, where contestants were allowed to throw their ducks and try to get as close to the target on the floor of the gymnasium as possible. Kinley Kuda won the prize, with her duck landing closest to the bullseye in the center of the court. Several ducks were a close second and third.
Court warming candidates included freshmen Mariah Maggard, daughter of Chuck and Nicole Maggard; Evan Utter back, son of Cale and Sam Utterback. Sophomore candidates were Dalana Gay, daughter of Jeff and Brandie Gay; Chad Troy, son of Chad and Rebecca troy. Junior candidates were Katelyn Sutton, daughter of Raymond and Christina Sutton; Richard Hayden, son of Stephan and Lydia Hayden. Senior candidates were Madelyn Caldwell, daughter of Chris and Stacey Caldwell; Cody Smith, son of Craig Smith and Brenna Mills. Returning queen was Kaylen Culwell, who is currently studying business at St. Louis Community College. Court warming Spirit queen was Erin Childs. The 2023 Court warming king and queen were Cody Smith and Madelyn Caldwell. Next, the Lady Indians will play Hannibal and the Indians prepare to play against the Wright City Wildcats.