For Parents

Dear parents/guardians,

I am excited to say that the John Watson Memorial Basketball Tournament (March Madness) is back! The goals of the tournament are to:

• • Have fun

  • Be a part of a team

  • Exercise

  • Enjoy and learn basketball

  • Show school spirit

  • Show good sportsmanship

  • To remember and honor John Watson

Fast Facts/Reminders:

• • Good sportsmanship is REQUIRED from EVERYONE (students, parents, fans, and refs)

  • Check the website for any updates and/or changes. I update the site constantly. Remember, games can be postponed due to rain and/or various other reasons.

  • This is NOT the NBA.

  • The referees are teachers who are volunteering to give up their recess and lunch breaks to bring this fun event to the school.

  • Teams consist of mixed gender and abilities.

  • It is not easy to ref a game with students of all different abilities. Some kids are picking up a basketball for the first time and don't know the rules while other students play in highly competitive leagues. This tournament is for everyone and we will ref in a way to help ALL players have fun.

  • ALL students were given an opportunity to sign up with their teacher before President’s Week.

  • Each game will be between 12 and 15 minutes.

  • Single elimination tournament. If your team loses, you are out of the tournament. If your team wins, you advance to next round. We will play until we have a champion in each grade level.

  • Students must be able to go back to class ready to learn.

  • School comes first, playing in this tournament is a privilege. Principal and teachers have the right to take away this privilege.

  • If you do come out and watch, it is important to remember that you are required to show good sportsmanship. Set a positive example for your child and for others.

  • Have fun, win or lose, and remember to show good sportsmanship!

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know via email.

Thank you,

Mr. Ryan Phillips

phillipsr@unionsd.org