On Dec. 11, the Winslow Elks Lodge No. 537 held their city-wide hoop-shoot championship at the Winslow High School gym. Hoop-shoot chairperson Chuck Long had 50 competitors for the championship following 272 students who had competed prior at the schools with the cooperation of the Winslow Unified School District teachers and principals. This is a Free Throw competition of 25 shots for boys and girls from 8 years to 13 years age groups.
In the girls 8 to 9-year-old age group Kiona Frank took first place; Danalyn Yazzie, second; and Aubrielle Dixon, third.
In the boys 8 to 9-year-old age group Jerron Jordon took first; Kaven Tully, second; and Tylin Nez, third.
In the girls 10 to 11-year-old age group Kyron James took first; Nalani Chee, second; and Amatiel Gonzales, third.
In the boys 10 to 11-year-old age group Jacoby Chee took first; Tiovaung Lugo, second; and Lonnie Patioyessva, third.
In the girls 12 to 13-year-old age group Taylin Puhuhefuaya took first; Keilon David, second; and Jewel Ben, third.
In the boys 12 to 13-year-old age group Elijah Farris took first; Tye Desheenie, second; and Dallin Payne, third.
Those that placed received a medal, with the first-place winners also receiving a plaque. The first-place winners will now advance to the District Hoop-Shoot, which will be held in Camp Verde on Jan. 15. Over the years Winslow Elks Hoop-Shoot winners have gone on to win the state and eventually competing at the regionals that are held in Las Vegas.
