Bountiful High School Basketball Senior Night

Bountiful High School's Basketball Team is undefeated in Region.  They have had a great season!

Mike is a member of the team, but has not been able to play due to his ankle.  Last Spring, Mike had surgery to reconstruct the ankle that was basically dangling.  The surgery was successful, but the doctor limited his physical activity, and prohibited him from playing basketball until the fall.

At the beginning of the school year, Mike, along with other basketball teammates, began conditioning for the season.  They played games together, and Mike began tweaking his ankle here and there.  On Thanksgiving Break, he played in a game with friends and ended up being on crutches healing both injured ankles.  After multiple ankle injuries, we revisited the surgeon.  The surgeon checked Mike's ankle and determined that the surgery had "failed" (as he put it), and that Mike would need a follow-up surgery.

Mike continued to be a part of the basketball team, cheering them on to victory, but without participating.  I can't imagine how difficult this year as been for him watching his team members play the game he LOVES, while sitting on the injured bench.  He continued to attend practices hoping that his ankle would heal and he would be able to play.

When submitting his Mission papers, the surgeon, having not seen Mike for awhile, put limitations on where Mike could serve.  He wanted Mike to avoid places with unstable ground, dirt roads, etc.   He recommended surgery upon his return from his mission. It was a little discouraging.  After several doctors, physical therapy, a chiropractor,  and lots of hard work, his ankle has healed.  We met with the surgeon a week before he submitted his mission papers, and got 100% clearance to serve.

Not wanting to risk injury to his volatile ankle and have his mission delayed, he has decided NOT to play basketball the remainder of the season (which is only a couple weeks). He will remain a member of the team, but not play.  So sad!

Ben and I have enjoyed attending all of the Braves games. We faithfully attended every game, cheering the team on to victory.  It has been a date-night for Ben and I.  We love watching the Braves, and love supporting Mike.

On February 8th, the Braves hosted Senior Night.  It is a night where they recognize senior basketball players and their parents.  Considering our situation I thought it may be a little uncomfortable, but it wasn't.  There are several team members with sad situations.  One in particular is Mo Manu.  His mom has brain cancer, and her prognosis is grim.  The students, basketball players, and some fans, wear pink in honor of her.  It is such a difficult time for their family.  Our thoughts and prayers are with this great family.

We are optimistic that the Braves will be state champions this year!  Go Braves!

Honoring the Seniors.

To the mother's.

To the father's.