Granny Ballers Shoot Hoops for a Cause: Waco's Charity Showdown

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Waco Sit Shooters, a team of basketball-loving seniors, faced off against the Famous Friends of Waco in a charity game that raised over ,000 for the Friends for Life organization. This annual event, rooted in the rich tradition of the Granny Basketball League, showcases the passion and determination of these remarkable women, proving that age is no barrier to athletic excellence and philanthropic endeavors.

Empowering Seniors, Enriching Lives

Granny Basketball: A League of Their Own

The Waco Sit Shooters are part of a national organization called Granny Basketball, where women over the age of 50 can showcase their skills and compete against other teams across the country. These seasoned athletes embrace the 1920s-inspired rules of the game, adding a unique twist to the sport they love. The annual fundraiser game has become a cherished tradition, allowing the Sit Shooters to give back to their community while showcasing their athletic prowess.

Friends for Life: Providing a Lifeline for the Vulnerable

The beneficiary of the charity game, the Friends for Life organization, is dedicated to supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities who lack family support. Through a range of services, including transportation, grocery shopping, and minor household repairs, the organization empowers its clients to maintain their independence and remain in their own homes for as long as safely possible. The funds raised from the basketball game will go a long way in helping the organization expand its reach and provide vital assistance to those in need.

A Winning Combination: Granny Ballers and Community Champions

The Waco Six Shooters' coach and captain, Linda Gillam, expressed the team's pride in supporting the Friends for Life charity. "Anytime you can do something for somebody that meets the needs of people that are disadvantaged, who wouldn't wanna do that?" she said, echoing the sentiments of her fellow players. The Famous Friends of Waco team, organized by the Friends for Life organization, featured local celebrities who joined the cause, adding an extra layer of excitement and community involvement to the event.

Sweat, Smiles, and Sportsmanship

The game itself was a thrilling display of skill and camaraderie, with the Waco Six Shooters emerging victorious with a 41-29 score. Halftime festivities, including raffle drawings, contests, and a performance by the Waco Little Dribblers, added to the festive atmosphere. Despite the competitive spirit, the players emphasized the joy and fun they experienced on the court. "This has been a wonderful opportunity," Gillam remarked, "and they brought in great people for us to play with. And you can already see how sweaty we are. We're having a great time."

A Lasting Legacy of Giving

The partnership between the Waco Six Shooters and the Friends for Life organization is set to continue, with the annual charity game becoming a fixture in the community's calendar. This ongoing collaboration not only raises much-needed funds but also fosters a sense of unity and purpose, inspiring others to follow in the footsteps of these remarkable women who are redefining the boundaries of age and ability.