On December 7, Linganore High School (LHS) hosted a student vs. staff basketball game. The event was planned and organized by Linganore’s National Honors Society (NHS). 

LHS students involved in the NHS played a huge role in the success of this event, and English teacher and NHS advisor Kendall Billé was instrumental in organizing the event and getting students involved. 

There was a high level of participation in the event, with 16 staff members participating in either a coaching or playing role, and 14 students participating as well. 

Leading up to the game, staff members warmed up, impressing the large crowd. The students took a different approach in warmups and had some fun. 

As spectators were taking their seats and watching warm-ups, Linganore junior Leslie Zampier sang “Hair Salon” by Megan Moroney and played guitar. 

The stands were packed full of students rooting for their friends and their favorite teachers. 

From the opening whistle, the staff team pleasantly surprised spectators. Coach Dixon, Coach Jarboe and Math teacher Joey Athey had the most impact on statistics and were among the most impressive players for the staff. 

The students’ team was having a blast. They were taking wild shots and running circles around the staff; however, the jokes came to an end when the students were down 10 points at halftime. 

The teams cleared the court for halftime, making space for what many would describe as the “highlight of the night.”

Front office, attendance and janitorial staff teamed up to perform self-choreographed dances, giving spectators a good laugh. 

State champion Linganore cheerleading also put on an amazing show for the crowd at halftime. 

Following the performances, the second half of the game was intense. 

The students closed the gap between scores and made a serious attempt to pull ahead. The game was tied 45-45 with 2 minutes remaining. 

Senior Meg Hummel scored a free throw to take the lead for the students. 

The final two minutes were fierce. The ball changed possession many times, and both teams subbed in their best players. However, in the end, a foul on Jarboe awarded him two free throws. Jarboe made both, which ultimately sealed the win for the staff team. 

The game was a fundraiser event supporting the Sports Matter Foundation created by Dicks Sporting Goods. The Sports Matter Foundation aims to help kids everywhere get involved in sports. They acknowledge the positive impact of sports on mental health, physical health, academics and overall futures for children.

Ticket sales and concessions proceeds from the game all went to the foundation. Not only was the game a fun event for the Linganore community, it also raised $900 for the Sports Matter Foundation and provided service and volunteer hours for students involved in the National Honors Society. 

LHS hopes to continue this fundraiser for many years to come. Students are anxiously awaiting a rematch, staff hope to maintain the title, and the entire Linganore community is excited to continue raising funds for a good cause.