There will be a certain rumble in the stands of the California Middle School gymnasium floor, come Oct. 5.
A league of exceptionally gifted basketball players will take to the court against an esteemed California team. While winning is the ultimate goal of the two teams, there is a feat stronger than bragging rights each group has in mind: to help raise funds for the California Nutrition Center's roof.
The Bob Taylor Memorial Granny Basketball Game, hosted by the California Nutrition Center, will honor a "charitable group of senior women that donates its time and talents to support community projects."
The event has been going on since the 1950s, and this time it's making its run to California.
The California team, affectionately called "The Old Gray Males (of Pintos Past)" boasts Moniteau County Sheriff Tony Wheatley, Tim Baker, Darrell Hendrickson, Dan Sweet, Derek VanLoo and area pastors Jeremy Anderson, Joe Banderman, Larry Marriott, Gene Moeller and Steve Webb. Also on the opposing team is Dennis Donley. Coaches to encourage the California team are Sherry Cox and Jo Pummill.
The emcees for the event will be Mike Staton and Larry Kent, both of California.
"This is not your ordinary, typical basketball game," said Vickie Schroeder, event organizer and California Nutrition Center board member. "This is a hysterical, family-fun event for people of all ages where participants play by 'granny rules', like no more than two dribbles and no running.
"We are delighted the Granny League of Jefferson City is donating its time to benefit the nutrition center's new roof project."
Doors to the event open at 6 p.m., followed by a pre-game show at 6:30 p.m. with the game starting at 7 p.m.
A raffle free throw contest will take place during intermission. The game will also feature a senior cheerleading squad led by Beth Schoeneberg and Pauline Forck.
Tickets for the game are available from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays at the nutrition center, 107 W. Versailles St. in California, or at the door. Tickets are $10 for ages 12 to adults, $5 for children 5-11 and free for children under age 5.
For more information, call the nutrition center at 573-796-4240.