Mat-Su YMCA to host 2nd annual Shoots and Ladders Basketball Game

The Hatfields and the McCoys, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, and until two years ago, all of the NFL and the New England Patriots. Throughout history, there have been many rivalries and contests to prove who is the best. Now the newest entry into the pantheon of rivalries is set to meet up on the hardwood floors of Wasilla High School.

The Mat-Su YMCA is gearing up to host two formidable rivals — Law Enforcement versus Fire/EMS in what could be the contest of the year — the second annual “Shoots and Ladders” Basketball Fundraiser on Saturday March 26.

“The first year was so successful that we knew we had to bring it back, and this year should be fun,” Cindi Martin, President of the Mat-Su YMCA Advisory Board, said. “That game, it was so fun. We had the cops arresting the refs and the firefighters teasing the law enforcement with donuts, it was great to see everyone so involved and having a good time.”

According to Martin, all of the money raised stays within the community, funding scholarships to help families attend their affordable swimming program, before and after school programs and summer camps.

The Mat-Su YMCA formed three years ago and is affiliated under the Anchorage YMCA programs. The YMCA, often referred to as “the Y,” is a national, faith-based organization that works to improve the lives of children and families as a whole, in addition to the greater communities they represent.

This year, in addition to the basketball game, there will be a silent auction, a live pie auction, “Split the Pot,” and 2 bounce houses for the kids. Tickets are $10 and kids 6 and under are free.

For more information about the Mat-Su YMCA, including their upcoming summer camp programs, call 907-373-YMCA [9622], email matsuymca@gmail.com, or visit matsuymca.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Katie Stavick at katie.stavick@frontiersman.com