FREETHROW CONTEST SENDS TEN ON TO DISTRICTS

Ten boys and girls ages 10-14 took home a new basketball Friday when they won their age and gender category at the St. Michael's parish Knights of Columbus Freethrow Contest at the Cole County R-1 Schools gymnasium in Russellville.

The local Knights of Columbus have hosted the event for more than ten years, in conjunction with other Knights of Columbus across the state.

Winners at the local level advance to the district contest Feb. 3 at Helias Catholic High School.

"It's a thing Knights do to help the schools," said St. Michael's Grand Knight Jim Call. "It gives kids something to look forward to."

As many as 30 students have participated in the Russellville contest.

"This is a good incentive for kids to be athletic and keep trying," said contest organizer Galen Miller. "It also gives them a goal to work for."