On December 22, the Gilpin County High School Boys’ Basketball team organized their inaugural holiday dinner. Led by Coach Cassidy Joy, the purpose of the dinner was to foster unity among the team.

This marks Coach Joy’s first year with the team, and they have started from the beginning, building a strong foundation together.

Throughout the season, Coach Joy has made it her mission to emphasize the importance of compassion and teamwork. She understands that these vital skills are still taking shape within the players. By instilling these values, she aims to guide the team towards victory built on camaraderie and collective strength.

Describing the current state of the team, Coach Joy refers to it as a “rebuilding phase.” It is a time of transition and growth, as they transition from a past marred by individual anger to a future illuminated by newfound perspectives and higher levels of empathy.

When asked about the inspiration behind organizing a team-building holiday dinner, Coach Joy explained, “These guys have never done team building stuff.” She further highlighted the contrast by saying, “You can see how well the girls work together, and the boys need to start doing the same to compete in any of their sports.”

The best part of it all is that the impact of Coach Joy’s work is becoming very apparent among the team. Coach Joy reflects on the changes she has noticed in her short time with the team thus far, noting, “I think that they’re starting to actually get along. Instead of the little mean things they used to do, there’s a lot more joking. There’s a lot more laughter when they mess up.”

Coach Joy wishes also for the community to play an active role in nurturing the boys’ crucial development. She requests that more people attend their games, highlighting the stark difference in attendance between the boys’ and girls’ games. The lack of support becomes disheartening, hindering their growth and potential.

Guided by the unyielding spirit of Coach Joy, the Gilpin County High School Boys’ Basketball team is embarking on an exciting journey. With an unwavering determination to build stronger bonds and develop essential life skills, these young athletes are poised for success, both on and off the court. It is a journey fueled by unity, growth, and the overwhelming power of teamwork.