The Malad City recreation recently launched a brand-new boys basketball program for grades kindergarten through sixth grade, and the response from the community was nothing short of incredible. A total of 75 young athletes signed up to participate, filling Thursday night and Friday morning sessions with energy, enthusiasm, and a growing love for the game.

Kindergarten: Most Dedicated- Jette Thorpe; Fastest Dribbler- Chipper Jones; Best Defensive Player- Mccoy Molar; Most Improved- Persy Smith; Best Teammate- Straton McClellan

 The four-week program focused on teaching basic basketball fundamentals and then giving players the opportunity to apply those skills in game situations. Each session blended instruction with fun, competitive play, helping young athletes build confidence while learning teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

At the end of every session, coaches and volunteers recognized players who stood out that night in each age group. These players were rewarded with a fun prize—sour gumballs—which quickly became a favorite tradition. Players were also challenged with daily “homework,” encouraging them to practice the skills they learned at home throughout the week.

At the conclusion of the program, a combination of effort, improvement, and completed homework helped determine the league’s Most Valuable Player, selected from all participants. Additional awards were given for Best Teammate, Best Defensive Player, Fastest Dribbler, Most Improved, and Most Dedicated, celebrating not just talent, but effort and attitude.

The program was especially grateful for the support of the high school coaches and players who volunteered their time to help teach sessions whenever possible. Their involvement made a lasting impact on the younger athletes. A heartfelt thank-you also goes out to all the volunteers who generously gave their time to teach fundamentals and mentor these players.

Special recognition goes to those who were there night after night, including Breana Weeks, Dave Owens, and Sam Jensen, along with the tremendous help provided by Travis Arnout, Grant Steed, Jeremy McClellan, Cooper Daniels, and Lane Molar. 

1st/2nd Grade: Most Dedicated- Briggs Barnes; Most Improved- Branch Marshall; Best Teammate- Avery Eliason; Fastest Dribbler- Brantly Daniels; Best Defensive Player- Tristen Smith

Thanks to the passion, dedication, and community support behind this program, it was a tremendous success. Malad is proud to announce that this youth basketball program will now be held every year, continuing to help young boys learn, grow, and develop a lifelong love for the game of basketball.

Awards:

Rythem Frankom League MVP

5th/6th Awards: Most Improved- Austin Moss; Best Defensive Player-: Carter Jones; Best Teammate- Willis Arnout; Fastest Dribbler- Daxson Beutler; Most Dedicated- Jaxon Kelly

3rd/4th:  Most Improved- Gatlyn Steed; Best Defensive Player- Weston Evans; Best Teammate- Emmet McClellen; Fastest Dribbler- Eli Beck; Most Dedicated- Lincoln Moss