Riley honored!

After the teams are announced for the third session of the Boys' State Basketball tournament on March 4 in Des Moines, the crowd will grow quiet in anticipation of the singing of the National Anthem. And.......CAM Senior Riley will be singing it!! Chosen by audition to participate in this year's Iowa High School Athletic Union State Tournament series, Riley is one of a select few to hold this honor. Riley, we are all proud of you!
This is a significant event in my mind for a couple of reasons. The first one involves my own growth as a teacher. Looking for new opportunities for my students usually means that I also have to try something new and different. This is the first year that I have submitted singers to the IHSAU for National Anthem consideration. My hats go off to all the kids that gave this a try right before Christmas! And don't worry, we'll give it another go again next year.
The second reason that this is significant is the obvious inter-dependency that sports and music share. I love music and I also love sports. Many times I have stood with my hand over my heart, at attention for the singing (or playing) of the National Anthem at a sporting event. How wonderful to take the time to acknowledge our great country, say a prayer for our armed service protectors (and the son on the field), celebrate a beautiful voice or blend of voices, and raise the spirit for a good game! There's nothing better. Thirdly, I am so proud of the accomplished poise of my students. Because many of them have had character-building experiences like auditioning for All-State, singing the National Anthem at home games, participating in small group contest and singing in front of their peers, they can shout for joy when they get news like what I gave Riley last Friday instead of cowering in fear at the thought of such an audience. Riley almost did a hand stand when I told him. Pretty cool.
Riley- we're just so proud that you will be representing us in Des Moines on March 4. Sing your heart out.