Blue Devils basketball teams visit Puckett Park

Published 9:00 am Monday, July 16, 2018

By Becky Taylor

Tift County basketball teams, Tiftarea YMCA members, firemen, police and area residents gathered under one of the big trees as Puckett Park Friday. All came together for a community cookout, which featured a bounce house and games for kids.

TIFTON — Tift County High’s basketball left the gymnasiums and went outside Friday, assisting with the Tiftarea YMCA’s Summer Feeding Program.

The Blue Devils and Lady Devils joined with firemen, police and other volunteers at Puckett Park. While the firemen grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, players and coaches interacted with attendees. Besides the food, a bounce house, a football throwing game and music were set up.

And of course, basketball.

Firemen, police officers and Tift players shot hoops on the outdoor court at Puckett Park.

Booster Club President Kevin Robinson said the event was a way to connect with the community.

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By coming to the park, he said the teams were able to “spend time with kids” and support the area. Puckett Park does not get as many of these events.

“These kids are just as important,” said Robinson.

Tiftarea YMCA CEO Darian Peavy, who was also in attendance, said the Summer Feeding Program stop at Puckett Park was one of the most popular.

Robinson began organizing the event after seeing the Summer Feeding Program in action. He contacted the YMCA about making the Puckett Park celebration a special event. Robinson said when he called to see the firemen could possibly attend, the department agreed immediately.

Robinson said he would like this event to happen at least annually.