38 MAY 2026 By Mark Hays Fifth graders at Tavan Elementary School traded their classrooms for the court in a tradition known as “Tavan March Madness.” Held at Arcadia High, the event transforms students into basketball players for the day, complete with the energy and atmosphere of a varsity-level game. According to PE teacher Ellen Young, the event has deep roots within the community. “March Madness has been an event at Tavan for over 20 years,” Young said. “It is a great time. Our fifth graders get to play against each other in an environment complete with announcers and cheerleaders, plus parents and the rest of the school come to watch the action.” This year’s event featured 22 student athletes and 15 cheerleaders, all of whom contributed to fun. The game itself mirrored a traditional tournament. “They play four quarters, and we did a little half-time dance off with all the students and teachers,” Young said, highlighting the event’s emphasis on fun and participation in addition to competition. A key element of the program’s success is its connection to the community. For the past three years, Arcadia sports figures have volunteered their time to help prepare the students. “We have had Brian Frey and David Alfaro from Arcadia Sports Central coach our basketball players,” Young explained. “They take time to coach students every day for two weeks.” The event also benefits from the involvement of Arcadia High School staff and athletes, further enhancing its authenticity. “We get a lot of help from the Athletic Director, Drew Ammon and his Administrative Assistant, Randee Romero,” Young said. Gameday itself featured notable contributors who helped bring a professional feel to the experience. “Michael Fay, the Arcadia varsity basketball announcer for their home games, was our official announcer, and AHS varsity players Wesley Fay and Zach Smith were our referees,” Young said. Despite the structured competition, the focus remains on community and shared experience rather than just the final score. “The game was great, and the kids did such a great job,” Young said. “Yes, there is a winner, but in the end, we all come together and take pictures and celebrate having a wonderful day.” The annual “March Madness” continues to serve as a milestone for Tavan’s fifth graders, giving them a memorable sendoff as they prepare to transition to middle school. By combining athletics, school spirit, and community collaboration, the event reflects the values that have sustained for more than two decades. Tavan takes center court in long running basketball tradition By Bridget Edgell A coaches’ dedication impacts the lives of their players, parents, and overall environment of the team. Major Allgood and his crew of umpires have served Arcadia Little League for two decades, bringing structure to the game and mentorship and character development to the community. Major Allgood was presented with the Allgood Sportsmanship Award during Arcadia Little League’s opening night ceremonies in March. The award represents the values he has embodied throughout his 20 years of service – integrity, respect, leadership, and a deep dedication to developing better athletes and better people. Coach Danny Openden, who recently retired his ten-year coaching career for Arcadia Little League, emphasized Allgood’s welcoming presence: “He’s the umpire you’re hoping you get when you show up to the field,” he said. “He’s got a great disposition and an energy that’s infectious.” Beyond his role as an umpire, Allgood has built relationships with the league’s players. He fosters these relationships through patting kids on the head, congratulating them, explaining the rules when things aren’t quite right, and even giving them a collective nickname “bubba” when speaking to each player. Allgood also tends to leave an impression on families and coaches. Openden shared that Allgood encouraged him to continue coaching, despite his sons aging out of little league. That encouragement reflects his dedication to overall success beyond the players and toward the mentors guiding the athletes as well. Allgood has remained committed to Arcadia, despite his involvement in higher levels of baseball – including college-level games. “I think he enjoys the community and watching these kids get older, better, and become better competitors,” Openden said. “He doesn’t play favorites. If a player was out, he called him out. If a player was safe, he called him safe.” Another distinct characteristic that contributes to Allgood’s impact is his dedication to sportsmanship and fair play. This level of integrity is an essential aspect of the game, and Allgood instills it in the league’s athletes. The Allgood Sportsmanship Award reflects these same principles, recognizing players who demonstrate respect for the game and those around them. “When you see Major, you see a great combination between playing by the rules and having fun,” Openden said. Created by Board Member Mike Hampton, the Allgood Sportsmanship Award marks the beginning of a lasting tribute to his legacy. It will be presented annually within the league to individuals who exemplify the same character, leadership, and commitment to fair play that Allgood has demonstrated throughout his years of service. arcadialittleleague.com Arcadia Little League umpire recognized for 20 years of service The Allgood Sportsmanship Award will be presented to athletes who demonstrate the values Major Allgood has exemplified. PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCADIA LITTLE LEAGUE Tavan held its annual March Madness basketball game for fifth graders at Arcadia High. PHOTO COURTESY OF ELLEN YOUNG a little half-time dance off with all the students and teachers,” Young said, highlighting the event’s emphasis on fun and participation in connection to the community. For and athletes, further enhancing its authenticity. Gameday itself featured notable

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