ROSELLE, N.J. — The Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children (SFIC) raised about $107,000 to support partial tuition assistance scholarships for underprivileged students attending Archdiocese of Newark Catholic schools at its Founders' 22nd Annual Hoopfest on Jan. 17 at Roselle Catholic High School.

 

Approximately 400 spectators braved a snowstorm to attend the SFIC tradition, where there were three competitive games featuring some of New Jersey's most talented high school basketball players. Two of the participating teams—Roselle Catholic and Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child—represented the Archdiocese, with many players being SFIC scholarship recipients. The other teams hailed from respected schools throughout the Northeast, including Thrive Charter School, The Patrick School and Great Barrington Academy.

 

Outside of the games, SFIC recognized the players with the highest grades on each team by presenting them with academic achievement awards. 

 

"SFIC is so grateful to everyone who supported the Hoopfest—not even the snow could keep them away," said Dr. Michelle L. Hartman, the fund's chief executive officer. "This was one of most exciting Hoopfests we've ever had. But most importantly, it raised a significant amount of money, which helps our mission of providing children with the invaluable gift of a Catholic education. Our founders, Joseph J. Oakes III and Kenneth F. Kunzman, would be proud."