Free Throws Win Games and Pay Off Big Time for Local High Schools

We all know that free throws can win games for basketball teams. Often the difference between winning and losing is who can convert their free throw. Thanks to First National Bank's First Hoop Program, successful free throws have resulted in $274,250 donations to local High Schools since the program began in the the 2005-2006 season.

Starting witih 3 schools the program has now expanded to 11 schools. MDI joined in 2012 and Ellsworth in 2013. To date - MDI has received $26,700 and Ellsworth $24,300

A lucky fan is selected at half-time and if they make the free throw, the school earns money. The fan doesn't go away empty-handed, as this year they received a water bottle, and in the past basketballs.

This money is sorely needed by the schools. Last year, they didn't have any fans in the stands, so gate receipts were non-existent, yet they still had to pay out checks for officials and scorers, scoreboard operators and more. This year, there has been attendance limitations and most schools haven't had booster organizations selling food so revenue is down.

This year First National Bank donated $2500 to Ellsworth High School

MDI also received $2500 this year

Sumner Memorial High School received $2300

Unfortunately we don't have a photo from George Stevens Academy

GSA joined the program in 2016 and to date has received $16,900 while Sumner joined in 2019 and to date has received $9,150.