Hampton Teachers to Play Harlem Wizards Wed

In most situations, students laughing at their teachers' misfortunes would result in a trip to the principal's office.

Not tonight, though. It'll actually be encouraged.

That's because a group of 21 teachers representing the three School Administrative Unit 90 schools — Centre School, Marston School and Hampton Academy — will take on the Harlem Wizards during a comedy- and trick shot-filled exhibition fundraiser for the Hampton Parent-Teacher Association at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 7, at Winnacunnet High School.

Jodie Goucher, the PTA's fundraising co-chair, said the Hampton Hoopsters don't have a chance against the Wizards, although she said the game's not about winning or even raising money for the PTA.

"It's just trying to bring the three schools together and just have a family fun night," said Goucher. "It'll be hysterical to see them play against the Wizards.

"There's a lot of ribbing. You don’t usually get to see your teachers and principals in that light, so it's sort of fun for [the students and the community] to see the ribbing and the banter that happens."

Among the individuals singled out the last time the Harlem Wizards came to town was Centre School Principal Tim Lannon, whom Goucher said was frequently called "Bon Jovi" by the Wizards' announcer. Lannon is officially, and reluctantly, according to Goucher, listed as the Hoopsters' water boy this year, and even if he doesn't actually play it likely won't stop him from being a target of a traveling act known for inflicting a little comedic pain on everyone on the opposing team.

Other comical sights will likely include 5-foot tall Hampton teachers trying to guard professional basketball players, and many of the antics for which the Wizards are known, according to Goucher.

It's unclear whether the schools will be able to fill the 1,500-seat WHS gym, although Goucher said the event isn't meant to be a massive PTA fundraiser for the PTA.

"Not much money was made the last time, which sounds crazy, but this is just supposed to be a family fun night," said Goucher, who said any money raised through ticket sales will be given back to the schools through another event, activity or donation.

Eighth graders from Hampton Academy will also run a concessions stand during the game, and the proceeds from those sales will benefit this year's class trip.

Advance tickets are $10 for PTA members and $12 for non-members, and Goucher said tickets will also be available at the door for $12 for members and $14 for non-members.

Tickets are also available on the Wizards' website.

The Wizards will make a special appearance during each school's lunch period on Wednesday to meet with the students, and Goucher said it's possible tickets may be available at the school at some point before the game. Goucher said meeting the players during the school day will likely have a big impact on the students even if they don't attend the game, although she said it's likely it will help boost ticket sales.

"I can tell you if my three kids see these big guys come into their cafeteria, they’d go three shades of crazy trying to see them to play that night," said Goucher.

More information about the event is available by contacting Goucher at Jodie.Goucher@gmail.com.