Kathy Bailey Memorial Basketball Game Packs NHS

For the 10th year in a row, the Kathy Bailey Memorial Basketball Game to raise money for families dealing with terminal illnesses was a success.

The game that was first played in 2003 was initially designed as a fundraiser for Bailey, but has developed into an event to help other members of the community.

"I was part of a group that was friends with Kathy Bailey, and when she got sick we decided to do this game to help her out, and since she has passed on we’ve continued to do it for other families who are in her same predicament,” said event organizer Michelle Petersen.

The event was once again a sold out affair, as a capacity crowd inside the gymnasium watched the teacher vs. teacher showdown that was on display in this year’s game. The game has consistently packed Norton High School since the initial game.

“There’s no place better to live when you have a problem or something goes wrong,” Petersen said when asked about the sell out streak.

This year’s game was held in memory of former Norton teachers Peter Leddy and Suzanne Pompei who both past away in the past year. The two teachers who both were part of the Norton school system for over 30 years recently lost their battles with cancer.

"They’re wonderful people that meant so much,” Petersen said.

Despite a valiant effort by Team Leddy, it was Team Pompei that walked away with the 71-58 victory. Bob Bielawa was named the MVP of the game for his 20 points and 16 rebounds for Team Pompei.

Through the previous nine events, 70 families in Norton have been helped including 14 families that will benefit from this year’s game.

Appearing as the special guest referees once again were former New England Patriots players John Williams and Jim Bowman. Steven Bishop returned as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening.

Between quarters, several prizes including Red Sox tickets, a week in Orlando, and a Larry Bird autographed photo were auctioned off. At halftime the crowd was treated to a magic show provided by Urban Circus and a performance by  singer Tim Brown who also sang the National Anthem.