WHS hosts NIC scrimmages

Last week the North Idaho College men’s and women’s basketball teams made a special appearance at Wallace Junior/Senior High School to put on a intra-team scrimmage for the community and student body.

This was the second year for the scrimmage at WHS after one of their teachers brought the idea to WHS athletic director Bruce Bailey and principal Chris Lund’s attention.

The games were exciting and it gave some of the students an up-close chance to see what college athletes look like, how fast they play, and that even in Wallace, they have a chance to play at the next level — which can be important in helping them making their decisions in high school.

“It is always great to see local kids like Kaili (Cates, a Kellogg High graduate) playing at the next level while continuing their education,” Bailey said. “That was exciting to see her out on the floor competing against some great players from NIC. The kids and parents who attended the scrimmage seemed to enjoy it. It is a pleasure to be able to host NIC and we are planning on doing again next year.

“I do believe it can help encourage our students from the Silver Valley to possibly play at the next level if they want to commit themselves and work hard. Just because our kids come from smaller schools it doesn’t mean they cannot compete at the college level. Watching NIC and getting to know their players proved that.”

The NIC players really enjoyed their time in Wallace, too, especially considering their usual travel schedule has them on the road for several hours at a time.

Prior to the games, the NIC coaches discussed the number of potential opportunities that are available to the student/athletes including, AAU teams and other basketball camps that students can attend to help them improve their games, as well as introducing each of the players and talking about where they came from and where they are going after their time with NIC is over.