February break was a bust for many of us – little snow on the mountains and snowmobile trails as well as weak ice on the lakes.

What to do that is both exciting and invigorating? Go watch some Maine high school basketball tournament games.

I had the pleasure to go to a number of games these last few weeks and I would like to take a moment to commend our high school athletes, their coaches and their communities.

High school students learn such valuable skills when they participate in various teams and much of what they learn has nothing to do with rather or not they can shoot from the three-point line or defend under the hoop.

Instead, as the Maine Principals Association so clearly outlines, our students learn that “the purpose of activities in school programs is to develop and promote the physical, mental, moral, social, and emotional well-being of individual participants.”

As I was leaving the Expo or the Cross Center after various games, it was nice to see the respectful way our athletes and community members engaged with each other. Emotions can run high after a game, but overwhelmingly, communities understand that our school programs are successful when they create a positive environment for all.

Congratulations to all of the teams who have played with such passion and skill throughout this winter sports season.

Julie Blodgett

Cumberland


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