Basketballers to Score Points for Scholarships

Earl Holsapple, CDF Captain. Photo Courtesy of Holsapple family

By Johnny McDonald

In basketball, a bonus shot can be made from the free-throw line. But it's only worth one point.

That line will be better served and more rewarding March 31 from a night of basketball at the 10th annual Coach Earl Holsapple Games in Ramona High gymnasium. Ticket sales, opportunity drawing and silent auction purchases will contribute to 10 college scholarships to worthy area students pursuing athletic and firefighting careers or to those who have lost a parent.

Holsapple who died in 1997, was a firefighter captain who was active as a volunteer coach of many sports and served as Al Schaffer's basketball assistant for several years.

The fun-filled evening, starting at 6 p.m., will be highlighted by two hotly contested cagefests. In one, the County Basketball Coaches will play the Ramona High School Alumni All Stars. The other pits the Ramona Unified School District staff against the San Diego County Firefighters.

"Last year we raised over $5,000 and we hope to increase that figure," said event founder and organizer Schaffer, who had a remarkable coaching career in the midwest and at Ramona. "And, this time, we're putting out a challenge to any individual or company that might match our money total. That donor would be honored next year with a special section behind the bench."

Ticket prices are $5 for adults, $2 for children and students and $10 for a family and can be purchased in advance at Ramona High or from local firefighters.

Over the years, 36 students have been recipients and an expanded donor program could offer even more scholarships. Each student receives $500.

"For those seeking information about contributing, they can apply at Ramona High," Schaffer said. "And, we'd like to put a call for more raffle and auction prizes."

Contact sources are Al Schaffer (760) 788-0388, Coachal1956@sbcglobal.net or Margaret Scheib (760) 788-7566, scheib2@cox.net.

Schedule

6 p.m. -- OPMS 7th grade girls vs OPMS 8th grade girls.

6:30 p.m. -- OPMS 7th grade boys vs OPMS 8th grade boys

7 p.m. -- San Diego County Coaches vs RHS Alumni

8 p.m. -- 77CDF Firefighters vs RUSD Faculty