Posted 2/14/01 Viking Basketball League is a good community effort To the editor: The Viking Basketball League, a Co-ed program for 5th and 6th Graders, recently finished up its first season. This program, like many others, exemplifies what is so good about our community. Volunteer time, financial support, caring parents, public servants and local athletes worked together to give this program a successful start. North Branch Area Community Education sponsored the 14-week league. Community Edís expertise, administration and service provided many opportunities to our community that would not have happened otherwise. The North Branch Schools provided the use of the Middle School gymnasiums, and support staff such as Debbie Lucker and Terry Olson made sure everything went well. Local businesses such as G&K, Melby Custom Homes, Graphic Homes, Northern Solutions, Miller Law Office, WSB and Milcon willingly provided financial support for start up expenses and trophies. Itís certainly a proud moment when that kid gets presented with the trophy that he or she just won. You just donít get much accomplished without the parents. They transported the kids, cheered and encouraged, coached, kept the scorebook and helped in numerous more ways to make sure that the kids had an opportunity to participate and ensure that the league succeeded. While the kids were working hard on the court, moms and dads were working hard off the court. The North Branch Schools Athletic Department also needs to be commended for its efforts. Coach Baumann and Activities Director Becky Leuer always encourage and persuade their student athletes not only to excel on the floor and in the classroom, but also in the community. Seniors Jeremy Miller and Trent Minke served as our referees. Whether they realized it or not, they certainly set the standard for role models and mentors. It was great for our kids to see those two on the court competing Friday night and refereeing their games on Saturday afternoon. What a great example of what sportsmanship is all about. The Viking Basketball League is one example of how numerous community members come together to make a difference. I am very pleased that I was a part of it. John Moosey North Branch ©Post Review