The Old School Classic Alumni basketball event held at Lakeland High School last weekend was a success in more ways than one.

Smile, laughter, sweat and tears were all part of the fun-filled weekend. Every classmate who attended was able to socialize among one another. Chairman and Lakeland boys’ basketball coach Clint Wright Sr. was happy with the way the event turned out. A large crowd filled the Lakeland gym as three alumni games were played. Money was raised, and the proceeds will boost the Cavaliers basketball team.

“The Old School Classic was as exciting as ever,” Wright said. “It was good to see a bunch of classmates I haven’t seen a long time. I don’t know if my arms were tired from the hugs or from playing in the actual basketball game.”

The event featured its first female exhibition game which included 12 alumni women of Suffolk high schools. John Yeates High School and Forest Glen High School also squared off. The last game of the evening was between Suffolk High School and John F. Kennedy High School. Those games featured some quality basketball from players of the old Peanut and Tidewater District.

“I can’t say enough about the alumni, Wright said. “It was a great environment, and alumni traveled from everywhere to come be a part of the event. I appreciate every one laying all on the line at this level. We were all just excited about the opportunity to be able to still play and be able to do it next year.”

The Cavs players and families are appreciative of the Old School Classic each year. Wright does a good job making sure that expenses are cut in some areas for his players. It also gets players excited about the time remaining before basketball season arrives, knowing there can be new things for them to look forward to.

Being the chairman of the committee, Wright looks forward every year to seeing the smiling faces. There were also a few tears as alumni recognized those that have passed since last year’s event.

“The things I cherish the most are the smiles on folks’ faces and how everybody is able to win,” Wright said. “We are already looking forward to the event next year.”

The event also included a tailgating event and worship service at Oak Grove Baptist Church. Next year, they will alternate churches for the Sunday service. Planning for next year has already gotten under way.

Wright is looking forward to the event growing even bigger for next year.