Rock the Ribbon is a tournament for schools to come to RCHS and play basketball. The event is a charity fundraiser, and big schools around Virginia and neighboring states often come to play. Schools like Oak Hill Academy, Moravion Prep, Blue Ridge Academy, and our own schools play in this tournament. With the tournament happening on January 26th and 27th, this article will be giving information about the event.
Travis Patterson is a Senior Investigator for the Sheriff’s department in Rockbridge County, and is one of the people responsible for setting this tournament up. He was asked who else helps him with setting up the tournament.
“The sponsors assist with logistics and help finance some of the expenses. Some of the national teams require appearance money and to offset that the sponsors chip in. I work with the schools and coaches to create a competitive schedule and lock that in months in advance. RCHS has been very accommodating over the years and allows us to use their facility to host the event. As far as the day of the event our volunteers show up and make sure everyone has a pleasant experience,” Said Patterson.
To set up this event takes more than just one person, it takes the help and support of many people to help this charity event run its course. From sponsors to coaches, everyone is together to help with the charity.
Travis Patterson was then asked what the charity is for and how long has the tournament been a thing.
“We raise funds for the American Cancer Society in an effort to fight cancer and hope to one day find a cure for cancer. 2024 marks the tenth anniversary of Rock the Ribbon.”
Having a ten year anniversary for this charity event is a huge success, donating to a great cause and bringing awareness to all who attend.
Some may ask, what makes the event worth attending? The answer is simple, besides being a chance to donate to a great cause, It’s an opportunity to watch some great basketball games. Travis Patterson speaks on the scene of the event and why he believes it’s worth coming to it.
“Some people come out to support the cause and could care less about basketball”. Others love high school basketball and enjoy the all day format where they can watch game after game. In our previous years we have had a handful of McDonald’s All Americans participate as well as quite a few that have gone on to play major college basketball and currently play in the NBA and NFL,” claimed Patterson.
Rock the Ribbon is worth going to. No matter if you come to support a charity, to watch amazing players play, or both, going to this event is worth the experience.