GT Community Basketball League Kicks off 2015 Season

Grand Terrace Community Basketball League kicked off the 2015 season Sunday, Jan. 11. The first game started bright and early at 8 a.m. Although the entire day was filled with basketball games, the GT Community Basketball League’s Board wanted to take the opportunity to honor former League President Richard Loder for all he has done for the league over the years. Right after the first game came to an end at about 9 a.m., current President Christina Brodbeck, shared a few words highlighting Loder’s dedication and the hard work he has put into the league. Although it was a hard decision for Loder to step down this year, it was best for his work schedule, Brodbeck said. “We wanted to acknowledge how much we appreciate the extremely hard work he has put in the years he was here. He played a vital role. He has just done so much for us,” Brodbeck shared. Unfortunately, Loder was unable to attend the opening ceremonies, but it didn’t stop the board from expressing their gratitude for him. Over the years he has been on the board he has served as both vice president and president and has been involved in many other activities and programs in the Grand Terrace community. “There’s so much work to put into this job and he took on all of it the years he was here. We really appreciate him and will definitely miss him,” she added. Brodbeck announced his certificate of appreciation and a $50 gift card to Outback Steakhouse. Three youth community members ranging from the ages of 4 to 7 said the Pledge of Allegiance for the audience. Sister of one of the players, teenage community member Jacqueline Bulger, sang the National Anthem before proceeding with the ceremony. Also, special guests, 4 to 9 year-old cheerleading group, the “Minnies,” from the Grand Terrace Rec Center, took the court to perform a routine lead by Bulger. This ceremony represented the start of this new season and Brodbeck is excited, she shared. “My board is just amazing. I’m so proud and impressed about how dedicated they are,” she explained. “There were board members there all day long. It’s just hardcore dedication.” With the new year and season already started, the GT Community Basketball League wants to implement a few ‘housekeeping’ rules to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the gym: * No outside food, including sunflower seeds and peanuts, or beverages will be allowed in the gym except for those of the snack bar or team drinks and snacks. * Do not coach from the sidelines. Remain in the stands so you can enjoy your child playing. * Mainly for safety reasons, cars will only be allowed to park in the designated parking lots and spaces. No parking on the sidewalks or in front where it blocks other cars or people. * Lastly, if one has a question or concern during a game, please find and address it to a board member to avoid approaching the scoring table. Along with the few rules to start off the new season, Brodbeck also shared another addition to the league. Aside from the board, they also have started a Junior Board that consists of high school and junior high school kids that want to help volunteer and obtain community services credit. She said, “They help out throughout the gym, helping run the scoring tables and such. We have a great group of kids.” Even Fiesta Village joined in on the fun that Sunday. Brodbeck added, “Thanks to Fiesta Village and all the vendors for your support.”