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Hoopcoming at Veritas Prep Was a Celebration of School Spirit and Community

Veritas Prep February 18, 2025 -

Hoopcoming at Veritas Prep has quickly become one of the most anticipated events of the school year, bringing students, families, and faculty together for a day filled with energy, competition, and camaraderie. While still a relatively new tradition, the event had already made a lasting impact on the academy.

Athletic Director Chase Beebe, who witnessed Hoopcoming for the first time last year, was amazed by the overwhelming enthusiasm. “Even in my role, I was absolutely blown away by the support of the entire Veritascommunity,” Beebe shared.

Headmaster Theresa Weiland credited Beebe for the continued success of this school pastime. “Last year’s Hoopcoming, in particular, was just fantastic under the leadership of our great Athletic Director Chase Beebe. We had huge crowds come out, and it was just a fantastic feel in the gym.”

Weiland added that last year’s event was particularly memorable, as both the varsity boys’ and varsity girls’ basketball teams advanced to the state tournament, an achievement that further energized the entire community.

Spirit line cheering on basketball players as they enter the gym

The day started out with a special Spirit Wear Day, where students proudly sported their school or team-themed attire. This visual display of school spirit set the stage for the festivities ahead. As the day progressed, the entire student body gathered for the winter sports pep assembly, an exciting event where student-athletes participated in fun competitions, bringing a sense of unity and excitement among their peers.

basketball players walking in front of bleachers filled with students in a gym.

After school, the gym transformed into the heart of Hoopcoming, featuring three thrilling basketball games against Heritage Academy Laveen: the boys JV game, the girls varsity game, and the boys varsity game. “Throughout the games, it is just a lot of fun,” explained Beebe, adding that each game was accompanied by high-energy entertainment, including halftime competitions where students competed for prizes and the highly anticipated “swag toss,” where Veritas merchandise was thrown into the crowd to further ignite the excitement.

Veritas varsity boys basketball team posing for group picture in the gym

The JV boys fought hard in a close game but ultimately fell short, losing 49-51. The varsity girls secured a thrilling 31-28 victory, and the varsity boys dominated with a decisive 73-47 win.

This year marked the inaugural performance of the Veritas spirit line, a new addition that brought even more energy to the halftime shows. Their performances, coupled with the enthusiastic crowd and competitive basketball, contributed to an unforgettable atmosphere.

AD Chase Beebe posing with a basketball in front of a mural that reads, "FALCONS"

Beebe highlighted the significance of Hoopcoming beyond just athletics. “I think Hoopcoming, homecoming, and all these special events, not just athletic, but all special events add a special love for their school, and it helps remind them of why they’re here, why they chose Veritas. Because you really see them come together, you see the joy that they have for this school [and] for their friends, and it’s so special to be able to share that with them.”

With the continued leadership of the athletic staff and the unwavering enthusiasm of students, student-athletes, and staff, Hoopcoming will remain a cherished tradition, strengthening the bonds of the Veritas Prepfamily for years to come.

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