TRAVERSE CITY — Heather Simpson's basketball team practiced without shoes, for a purpose.
Simpson, coach of the ninth-grade girls team at Traverse City Central High School, used a portion of her recent practice time to illustrate what it might feel like to not have athletic shoes.
"I want them to see that something that they take for granted is not available to everyone," said Simpson.
Simpson and her players organized the third annual Hoops for Hope game to raise funds to buy athletic shoes and socks for local girls in need.
Central junior Claire Young, who helped plan the first event and played last year, said it felt great to compete for a good cause.
"It really brought our team together," she said.
This year's benefit game matches Central against St. Francis and takes place tonight at Central High School. The JV contest begins at 6 p.m. followed by the varsity game at 7:15 p.m. Admission is $5.
Donations are collected at the door; gate fees and raffle proceeds also go to charity.
"The game between Central and St. Francis has always been a big thing, always has a big crowd, so why not make it about more than basketball?" Simpson said.
More than $11,000 has been raised for Girls on the Run and Child and Family Services of Northwestern Michigan in the first two Hoops for Hope contests.
"We have been blown away by the success of this event," said Linda Sommerville, director of community relations for Child and Family Services.
Last year, Sommerville oversaw the purchase of more than 50 pairs of athletic shoes for foster care and at-risk children.
Girls on the Run is a program offered in 40 schools throughout northern Michigan that combines running with self-esteem building. It also purchased shoes and socks for girls without proper footwear.
"There are a lot of kids in poverty. New shoes are something that they just can't afford," Sommerville said.
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Related Photos
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Traverse City Central High School's ninth-grade girls basketball coach had her team practice without shoes to illustrate what it would be like to not have any. The girls will be part of the third annual Hoops for Hope benefit to raise funds to purchase athletic shoes for local children in need. Record-Eagle/Lisa Perkins
Hoops for Hope to raise money for shoes
Coach: I wanted them to see what they take for granted
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Video: 'Taps' at Memorial Day service at Oakwood Cemetery
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Get to work without using your car
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City to discontinue spring cleanup
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