Like Mike

When contestants step up to the line at a Hoop Shoot contest, they do so alone. However, when 8-year-old Michael Powell stepped up to the free-throw line at the Costal Connecticut District Hoop Shoot contest this January, he was anything but alone. Michael had his father, and a Hoop Shoot family legacy, standing right beside him.

Michael, a second-generation Hoop Shoot participant, won Stamford, Conn., Lodge No. 899’s contest by sinking 23 out of 25 free throws, and his District contest by scoring 20 out of 25. The third-grader is quickly following in his father Mike Powell’s footsteps. Powell won the Alabama State Hoop Shoot Championship in 1981 and 1983, and qualified for the National Finals in 1981.

Family Time at the Foul Line

Michael and his father practice together often, much like Powell and his father did when he was a kid. Michael practices his free throws six days a week, and father and son rent a local gym on the weekends.

“The Hoop Shoot made a lasting impression on me as a kid, so I sought out a contest in Connecticut for my son,” explains Powell. “Michael and I are building lasting memories.”

Michael takes this father-son practice time seriously.

“Michael races home from school and the first question he asks is, ‘Can I practice, or is it too cold out?’” says his mom, April Powell.

Free-Throw Success

Michael’s dedication paid off. At the Connecticut State contest, he placed fourth in his age group.

Trophies and Hoop Shoot accomplishments aside, it’s the love of the game and his dad’s example that keeps Michael stepping up to the foul line.

“My dad played basketball, and I want to be like him,” says Michael. “I also think shooting baskets is fun.”

Through the Elks National Hoop Shoot Free Throw Program, the Elks National Foundation teaches kids the values of hard work and good sportsmanship. In 2013-14, the ENF allocated $692,750 to fund this program. For more information on the Hoop Shoot, visit www.elks.org/hoopshoot.