Long Beach Poly Football Team (Half-time at Basketball Game)
It was rivalry week for the Long Beach Poly Jackrabbit Varsity Boys Basketball Team, as they hosted their cross-town rival, the Long Beach Wilson Bruins. It provided the perfect atmosphere for the Tour of Champions presentation to Poly's Football team on Wednesday, Jan. 23rd.Although it was raining outside, it did not stop the Poly faithful from comingout in full force. The student-body was well represented as they provided high energy and lots of noise. As the Army National Guard began to set up their booth and prepare the T-shirts for distribution, the tone was being set for an exciting night. The banner for Army National Guard and MaxPreps hung proudly as it was accompanied by a plethora of championship banners, trophies, awards, and famous names throughout the gymnasium. It added a certain level of importance to that night's basketball game. That night's event took place in what many believe to be the most well-respected and powerful school in the nation, both athletically and academically.
At the half, Boys Athletic Director, Rob Shock took the microphone, proudly, and showed his appreciation to all who made the event special. He gave thanks to all in attendance and turned the mic over toMaxPrep's Chris Stonebraker. Just like a pro, Chris showed that he was sports savvy by mixing it up with the Boys' Football team by performing a special handshake and dance routine, only known by the Jackrabbit FB players. The boys went crazy and the crowd erupted in laughter. Once the victory ritual was finished he introduced Capt. Chris McCarty from the Army National Guard, who so elegantly expressed his most sincere congratulations to the awardees and the school. The trophy was then handed to Head Coach Raul Lara, as he lifted it up high above his head, arousing the crowd to a mighty roar. Then, Coach Lara said a few words about his great team and handed the mic back over to Chris.Following the ceremony, pictures were taken under the west basketball hoop in front of the Army National Guard/ MaxPrep's banner.
