'Basketball Chapel' honors St. Nicholas Girls’ standout season, boys’ progress

Chattanooga's St. Nicholas School wrapped up its basketball season with a special “Basketball Chapel” on Monday, Feb. 24. The service brought the school community together to celebrate the hard work, growth, and achievements of the Waves boys’ and girls’ teams.

Led by Coach Chris Gooden, the girls’ team had a standout season, finishing with a 4-3 record and tying for second place in the regular season of the Try Kidz Youth Athletics league. A season highlight came when they defeated the #1 team, Chattanooga School for the Arts & Sciences (CSAS), in an 8-2 victory.

Every player made an impact on the court, contributing points, steals, and rebounds. The team’s highest-scoring game saw them put up 33 points, totaling 94 across the season. But beyond the stats, the season was defined by camaraderie, determination, and a love for the game.

“Coaching the St. Nicholas girls' basketball team has been one of the most rewarding things I have done in my professional career,” said Gooden, who is also the school’s admissions director. “I watched them compete with integrity, compassion, and enthusiasm while showcasing the spirit of St. Nicholas School, and it was an amazing experience.”

The boys’ team, coached by parent volunteer Wes Giglio, showed resilience and growth throughout their first season in competition, improving with every game. The boys prided themselves on tenacious defense and a connected offense, capping off the year with a down-to-the-wire one-point loss in the playoffs. Beyond the scoreboard, the team built strong connections with their coach and each other.

“Coach Wes is really nice,” said Level 5 student Knox Rupramka, who plays defense. “If you ever get a chance to play with him, give him a hug for me.”

The “Basketball Chapel” service provided a moment for students, faculty, and families to recognize the dedication of the athletes and coaches who made the season possible. Each player received a certificate and applause from fellow students, teachers, faculty, and proud parents.

 

"We are so proud of all our young athletes," Head of School Robert McGehee said. "At St. Nicholas, we see extracurricular opportunities like basketball as another opportunity for our students to grow socially and emotionally and for our community to come together to support each other."

This marks the second year for the girls’ basketball team and the third for the boys’ team at St. Nicholas School. The program continues to offer students opportunities to develop their skills, build teamwork, and thrive in a competitive yet supportive environment.

Basketball is part of the school’s broader commitment to well-rounded education, which includes various extracurricular activities designed to nurture students' growth both on and off the court.

For more information about sports at St. Nicholas, visit www.stns.org/extracurriculars/athletics.