For the 27th consecutive year, North Attleborough Middle School (NAMS) hosted its annual Hoops for Hearts event on April 30, a fundraiser that has now become a staple of the community. This year, 365 students participated in the event, collectively raising over $58,000, contributing to a grand total of $1,604,835.81 raised over the past 27 years to support the American Heart Association’s mission to fight heart disease and stroke.
Each year, Hoops for Hearts promotes physical activity, heart-healthy living, and community service while giving students the chance to engage in friendly competition through basketball skills games such as Knockout, 3 v 3, and Slam Dunk Contest. However, this year, the event held a special significance.
“All donations collected this year were dedicated to the memory of Mike Babul, a beloved former coach here in town who tragically passed away from heart disease,” said Jason Feid, physical education teacher at NAMS. “His father, Mike Sr., and brother Jeff were present at our opening ceremony to receive this dedication, and it was a powerful moment for all of us. This event is a reflection of not just our school but our community coming together to make a real difference.”
With its roots in middle school involvement, Hoops for Hearts has since expanded beyond the walls of the school, becoming a local tradition that unites families, businesses and residents. Each year, students and staff members set fundraising goals and work together to achieve them, all while learning about the impact they can make in their community.
“I’m always so amazed by the enthusiasm and generosity of our students and families,” said Feid. “They continue to blow us away with their efforts to raise funds for such an important cause. And this year, it was heartwarming to see the community come together for Mike.”
In addition to the donations raised by students, local businesses and organizations played a role in the event’s success. Kelleher Doors, New England Building & Restoration, and the Christopher J. Cornetta Foundation donated all the drinks and snacks for the concession stand, providing refreshments for both participants and attendees.
NAMS is a Hoops for Hearts state champion for 25 consecutive years and has been crowned national champions 22 times in a row. Out of more than 30,000 schools nationwide that participate in the program, North Attleborough’s Hoops for Hearts program remains a leader in both fundraising and community involvement.
“We are so proud of our students, our faculty, and our community for coming together year after year to make Hoops for Hearts a success,” said John Dempsey, physical education eacher at NAMS. “This is not just an event; it’s a tradition, and it’s something that we look forward to every year. It’s incredible to see how much of an impact we’ve had over the past 27 years.”
Hoops for Hearts has brought together 16,887 students over the years, and while it started as a school event, it has transformed into a community-wide celebration. With over $58,000 raised this year, the program continues to surpass expectations and set a standard for giving back. The generosity of the NAMS community and beyond is something that will resonate for years to come, ensuring that Hoops for Hearts remains a legacy of heart, hope and action.