On the basketball court, they’re rivals. On the football field, they’re teammates.
Wessington Springs senior Grady Gran is using that unique dynamic as the foundation for his senior project: a silent auction and supper fundraiser to support Bucks football camp opportunities for students across the WWSSC co-op.
Gran learned that last year, some students were unable to attend football camps due to cost.
“I found out there were kids who couldn’t afford to go,” Gran said. “I wanted to help make sure that doesn’t happen again.”
Despite the competitive rivalry between the Wessington Springs Spartans and the Sanborn Central/Woonsocket Blackhawks during basketball season, the two schools come together as one team in the fall as the Bucks. Gran said he couldn’t think of a better time to host the fundraiser than during the final regular-season basketball matchup between the Spartans and Blackhawks. Gran’s senior project fundraiser, a silent auction and supper, will be held Friday, Feb. 27, beginning at 5:30 p.m., ahead of the varsity contest. All proceeds will go to the Bucks Booster Club to help fund football camps for Bucks players.
The supper menu includes burgers, baked beans, chips and a dessert bar.
Funds raised will go toward helping ensure that all players in the football co-op have the opportunity to attend summer camps, regardless of financial circumstances.
Gran hopes the event not only raises money, but also highlights the shared commitment between the schools.
“It’s a rivalry in basketball,” he said, “but when it comes to football, we’re one team.”
Friday night’s game will bring the competitive energy fans expect but it will also serve as a reminder that beyond the rivalry, the communities work together to support their student-athletes.