Harlem Wizards vs Riverhead teachers: Fun for a good cause

The world famous Harlem Wizards are coming to Riverhead High School’s gymnasium Thursday, Nov. 12 to put on one of their dazzling displays of hoops artistry. The not-to-be-missed show starts at 7 p.m. but doors open at 6 p.m. Both of the Wizards events in past years have been sell-outs.

The game, which pits members of the Riverhead Central Faculty Association All-Stars against the Wizards’ team of professional basketball showmen, guarantees an evening of fun, laughter, and high spirits for the whole family. And, it’s all for a great cause. Proceeds from the game go to the RCFA Scholarship Fund.

The annual game has been such a successful fundraiser according to Greg Wallace, the high school physics teacher who coordinates the event, that it has raised over $20,000 for the scholarship fund. See coverage of 2014 and 2013 events.

According to Wallace, the additional funds that have been raised at previous games have allowed the Faculty Association to augment scholarships given to graduating seniors. Over the last two years the Association has also been able to give a number of scholarships to elementary students attending the East End School of the Arts.

Much to the delight of the students, members of the Wizards team visited each of the schools in the district last month to deliver anti-bullying messages while demonstrating the incredible basketball skills that make the team so much fun to watch.

So head to the high school gym to cheer on your favorite teachers as they battle the Wizards on the hardwood. Michael Hugelmeyer represents the district office as the game’s referee. The All-Stars will be coached by Sal Loverde of the middle school. Ed Tholl and Stacy Seal join in from the Riley Avenue staff. Philips Avenue players include Jacqueline Gormley and Frank Krupski. Corey Swenk, Dee Martin, and Michael Kantor of Pulaski Street School add to the All-Stars line up. Paul Hewitt, Betsy Rutolo and Bill Tolliver represent the Middle School and Patrick Burke, Chuck Kitz, and Kristen Hordy from the high school round out the All-Stars team.

Advance tickets are $10 for students and $12 general admission and are available at Duffy’s Deli in Jamesport or Saf-T Swim in Riverhead. Tickets at the door will be $12 for students and $15 general admission. Tickets are also available online at www.harlemwizards.com

The event is supported by the following community sponsors:  The highest level sponsorship, the Slam Dunk, is held by Stacey Braun Associates and the media sponsor is RiverheadLOCAL; other sponsors include Duffy’s Deli, Atlantis Marine World, Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices of Riverhead, Riverhead Building Supply, Messina Electric inc, Saf-T Swim, Peconic Bay Apparel, Mirkin & Gordon P.C., Neefus Stype Insurance Agent Chip Puccio, CGAA Registered Investment Advisors, Office Max, Riverhead Administrators Association, Twin Forks Optometry, Ignite Fuel, Apple Honda, Jess for Kids, Flip Flop Gymnastics, Riverhead Country Day School, East End Spa and Sauna, Home Town Electric, and Sele-Dent.