LEAF RIVER – A cherished tradition came to a close as the Leaf River Alumni Organization hosted the 50th and final Alumni Basketball Event at the former Leaf River High School on March 1 at the River Valley Complex. This milestone marked the conclusion of five decades of alumni gatherings at the original school site, bringing together generations of former students, athletes, and community members for one last time.
The evening’s program was led by Master of Ceremonies Terry Miller, a 1977 graduate, who guided attendees through an evening filled with nostalgia and camaraderie. The event honored the Class of 1975, with several graduates from the class in attendance to celebrate their legacy and contributions to the Leaf River community.
Cathy Sisto, daughter of Red and Aggie Baker, shared a touching reflection on the event's history, saying, “I can still see my parents along with Emerson and Alma Baker as they planned and organized this event in 1975. They would all be so happy that it continued for 50 years. Thank you to all who kept the LRHS Demon spirit alive!”
Following the Bakers’ involvement, Ardis Kump took over the responsibility of planning and organizing the event, ensuring that the tradition continued when the Bakers were no longer able to. Her dedication helped sustain the annual gathering and contributed to the event's lasting legacy.
The night began with doors opening at 5 p.m., followed by a sandwich supper from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. At 6 p.m., the special recognition program paid tribute to the Class of 1975 before leading into the highly anticipated pick-up basketball game at 7 p.m. Alumni laced up their sneakers for one final game, while the alumni band provided a spirited soundtrack for the evening. Musicians were invited to bring their instruments and join in, with music provided for all.
A special thank you goes out to all who have served on the planning committee, helped with set-up, and worked to make this event possible over the years. Your dedication and hard work kept this tradition alive for five decades, and the Leaf River community is grateful for your efforts.
This final event at the beloved school site was a true celebration of Leaf River spirit, bringing together alumni one last time to reminisce, reconnect, and be part of the school's enduring legacy.
While this marked the final alumni basketball event at the former Leaf River High School, alumni can look forward to continued opportunities to reconnect. Leaf River Alumni Gatherings organized by the Leaf River All Classes Reunion will be held in June, and more information on those events will be available on the Leaf River All Classes Reunion, Leaf River High School, and Leaf River News Facebook pages.
