Hannah Barrett, Grace Bertolino, Shelby Taylor and Keaton Link
One Gillespie team finished first in their respected division in the 11th annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament hosted by Macoupin County Anti-Meth Coalition while two other Gillespie teams finished in second place. The games were played in Gillespie last Saturday with the first game kicking off at 8 a.m. and the last one wrapping up at 4 p.m. Gillespie High School’s MPACT’D group (Miners Preparing And Caring for Teen Driving) helped the tournament by operating the concession stand.
Earning first place in the tournament in the 7th and 8th grade girls division was Hannah Barrett, Grace Bertolino, Hannah Barrett and Keaton Link. Earning second place in the 5th and 6th grade girls division was Tenley Bussmann, Lauren Bertagnolli, Erika Gill and Becca Crays. Also earning second place from Gillespie in the 3rd and 4th grade girls division was Delaney Taylor, Madi Martin, Corinne Fellin and Macie Wright.
“This partnership opportunity was a great way to get more youth involved in the planning and running of the event,” Paula Campbell said. “They oversaw concessions and earned all the money from it.” MPACT’D is a student led and student run organization who support and advocate for safe driving, making good choices, and plan career day activities throughout the year at GHS.
Total amount raised through sponsorships and donations was $4208. Money raised from this event will go to help the group’s mission to inform and educate Macoupin County citizens about illegal drug trends in the county, the dangers of drug use, middle and high school prevention programs, and to sponsor drug-free chaperoned events for middle and high school teens.
Look for mini-grant opportunities for schools, youth groups, and community groups this spring to host a drug awareness/free event this summer. If you are interested in joining the Macoupin County Anti-Meth and Drugs Coalition, please call 217-899-3449 for more information or contact them through their Facebook page.