hoopswish_webNORTH READING — Calling all Hornets! A reunion and reception for all people ever connected to the North Reading High School boys’ and girls’ basketball programs will be held on Saturday, May 9.

“Basketball Before the Wrecking Ball” is open to all former boys’ and girls’ players, cheerleaders, coaches, managers, writers and fans.

The schedule of events includes a tour of the new North Reading High School in the morning. The afternoon program will have pick-up games, shoot arounds, renewal of old friendships and viewing memorabilia.

In the evening, a reception will be held at the Hillview Country Club.

All profits from the events and reception will be donated to NRHS boys’ and girls’ basketball programs.

Gym retirement events (Tickets: $5 per family)

• 10 to 11 a.m.: Tour of new High School (meet in lobby of new NRHS at 9:30 a.m.)

• 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Old Gym): Basketball games, shoot around, cheerleaders reunion, memorabilia lobby.

• 2 to 3 p.m.: Geezer Game.

Reunion Reception (Tickets: $35 per person)

• 6 to 10:30 p.m.: Hillview Country Club

The day’s events begin with a tour of the new NRHS and then continues at the old gym with half court pick-up basketball games, shoot around (for those with better judgment), cheerleaders reunion with cheerleader routines and memorabilia display (bring old photos, uniforms etc).

Geezer Game

The gym events conclude with the much anticipated Geezer Game to be coached by coaching legend Barry Kipnes and current NRHS coach Joe “J.P.” Casey.

The day’s events conclude with a Reunion Reception at the Hillview Country Club from 6 to 10:30 p.m. Ticket price for the reception includes an hors d’oeuvres buffet and a cash bar.

Don’t forget to bring your camera (that’s your phone for you old-timers) for an event like no other.

For a full schedule of events and times and a glimpse at old photos of players and cheerleaders, go to Facebook or Google and type in “NRHS Gym Retirement Celebration.” Tickets can be purchased from this site via PayPal for both the school tour and the retirement reception.