The Elks Hoop Shoot is a free throw program for youth ages 8-13 and for 50 years, it has been developing gritty kids. This year is no exception as the Port Jervis Elks Lodge #645 had two outstanding representatives, Gavin Gass and Isabella Raap, at the State contest held on March 5th in Glens Falls, New York. Gavin Gass is the son of Heather Gass, a teacher at H.B.E and Isabella Raap is a current student at H.B.E.
Prior to the State Contest, both Gavin Gass and Isabella Raap won first place at the local, district, and regional contests to qualify to compete at the Elks Hoop Shoot State Finals this past weekend. During the State contest, in a crowded gym full of judges, participants, Elks representatives, family, and friends, each contestant shoots two rounds of free throws: one set of ten and a second set of 15. Due to the intense and intimidating atmosphere, it was impressive to watch Gavin and Isabella display poise, focus, mental fortitude, and perseverance.
In the 8-9 year old boys’ division, Gavin Gass finished 3rd place in New York State against some fierce competitors. Gavin displayed a great deal of sportsmanship throughout the contest and we are very proud of his accomplishments.
In the 8-9 year old girls’ division, Isabella Raap won 1st place becoming the 2022 Elks Hoop Shoot State Champion in her age division! Isabella drew the first shooting slot and set the tone making 7 out of 10 free throws in her first round and then hitting 10 for 15 free throws in the second round. She edged out her closest competitor by one free throw and secured the victory with a total of 17 out of 25 made baskets! Isabella will move on to the Northeast Central Regional Competition being held on March 19th in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. This contest is between the State winners of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania with the Northeast Central Regional Winner advancing to the National Finals being held in Chicago, Illinois on April 30th.
We are very proud and excited to have State Winner, Isabella Raap, represent the Port Jervis School District and the Port Jervis Elks Lodge #645! We wish Isabella the best of luck at the Northeast Central Regional Competition!
