They hula-ed, shot hoops, participated in service learning, raised more than $1,500 for Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake, and, perhaps most importantly, Gilman’s Middle School students came together on Tuesday, February 21 to take some time out for fun and tradition at the annual Hoops for Habitat.

Touted as “the most lit occasion of the year” by Middle School math teacher and Director of Service Learning Donell Thompson, Hoops for Habitat gives boys the opportunity to play three-on-three basketball in grade-level tournaments with creative team names and costumes. This year, 56 teams competed.

In 2021, a hula-hoop competition took the place of basketball, brought on by pandemic restrictions at the time. It was so popular that in 2022, it was added to the permanent lineup of the day’s activities. Dozens of students participated this year.

Following all versions of hoop games, students took part in service learning activities, writing 65 thank you notes to veterans and deployed troops through Operation Gratitude and making 250 sandwiches for those facing food insecurity through Paul’s Place.

A big thank you to Middle School social studies teacher Mark Lemon, who led the event this year and confirmed that it was, in fact, “THE most lit occasion of the year.”

Hula Hoop Winners:

• 6th grade: Ulysses W.
• 7th grade: Emmett M.
• 8th grade: Cian C. (He won last year for his grade, too!)

3-on-3 Basketball Winners:

• 6th grade: Big Baller Brand (Jackson P., Cullen K., Kai G)
• 7th grade: The Chefs (Ronan W., Banks E., LJ R.)
• 8th grade: Two Sticks, One Stone (Ethan G., Collin K., Cooper H.)