Locals headed to Elks Hoop Shoot state finals

After winning at the local and district level, a pair of Havre youngsters are headed to the Elks State Hoop Shoot this weekend in Livingston.

Havre's Ivar Aageson, left, and Sadie Filius pose for a photo with their awards after capturing the Elks District Hoop Shoot championship in Cut Bank last month.

Ivar Aageson will compete in the boys 12-13 division while Sadie Filius will compete in the girls 10-11 division. The duo won at the district level last month in Cut Bank to advance to Livingston.

The annual free-throw contest is one of the largest events sponsored by the Elks Lodge nationally. Youths advance from the district level through regional competitions where eventually six national champions are crowned. The national winners eventually have their name on a plaque at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass.

"Kids who compete learn about respect, dedication, loyalty and self-esteem," Local hoop shoot chairman Matt Kretchmer said. "The contestants dedicate themselves to hard work, discipline and practice. These life skills help kids face the challenges of today."