Last night, January 22, the Marco Island Academy Rays celebrated the seniors of this year’s basketball and winter cheer teams. The Manta Ray athletes worked hard for a fun and lively season, carrying leadership with them in every chant, step, and dribble. 

By the way MIA’s seniors carry themselves, it’s safe to say that they’re ready for the next chapter of their lives, being a stark contrast to when they first joined the sport in their previous years. Both basketball teams have had an intense and rigorous season, battling against teams all over the region. The night started off with a high-energy game, the audience buzzing with excitement as the girls started claiming dominance over the scoreboard, beating Mason Classical Academy 33-24.

The boy’s team fought with all of their might, making for a very close game. Every time audience members glanced at the scoreboard, a different team was winning. However, despite their hard efforts, Mason Classical Academy managed to rise above the Rays during the fourth quarter. 

Amidst the noise of the lively student section and boisterous gym, the cheerleaders consistently ran up to fill the court and entertain the audience with complex stunts and animated chants at every quarter and time-out. All of the girls on the team put their whole heart into showcasing their school spirit on this special night for their seniors, putting it all on the gym floor. Junior cheerleader, Amanda Fonseca, expressed “I’m going to miss my seniors so much but I’m glad they’re getting to move on to bigger things.”

After the girl’s game concluded, the spirited energy of the room started to wind down as seniors and their families started to gather and line up to be announced for the senior ceremony. As the seniors started walking down the gym, their school involvement, fun facts, and special thanks were being announced in the background. Senior basketball player, Bianca Fernandes, explains “Walking down the gym with my family really made it hit that this is my last year of basketball.”

As the night came to an end, there were many tears shed as the final basket was shot, the final chant yelled, and the final buzzer sounding, symbolizing the acceptance of moving on and leaving all the last bits of spirit and leadership on MIA’s court.