Category: SCHOOLS

Schools

  • Expanding Basketball, School by School

    Expanding Basketball, School by School

    Donation to South Mountain Elementary School

    The SOMA Basketball Boosters recently donated 30 basketballs and an air pump to South Mountain Elementary School. The new equipment will be used during PE classes and recess. This marks the fourth out of six SOMSD elementary schools to receive resources from us as we work to expand the game across the district.

    The donation was officially approved by the Board of Education. Athletic Director Sjocquelyn Winstead and Nicole Monfasani (Head of Health and PE) helped us by making the initial introductions. PE teachers Jeffrey Kaesshaefer and Rich Tait then coordinated the delivery day to make it special for the kids and parents.

    Principal Dara Gronau, community youth basketball leaders, family donors, and sponsors all joined us for the event. We want to give a big thanks to the school leadership for creating a great environment and encouraging youth basketball.

    We look forward to continuing our support for district schools in the year ahead!

  • First Ever SOMA Cougars Girls Summer Basketball Camp

    First Ever SOMA Cougars Girls Summer Basketball Camp

    Over two weeks in August, 36 campers learned from Columbia High School Girls Basketball coaches and players, led by varsity coach Aaron Breitman.

    This girls only camp for grades 4-8 focused on basketball development with all counselors being players on the girls’ varsity team.

    Campers and families noted camp created new friendships and mentors while strengthening skills, confidence and community.

  • Growing the Game Across SOMSD 

    Growing the Game Across SOMSD 

    SOMA Basketball Boosters recently donated basketballs and equipment to the PE programs at Columbia High School, Tuscan Elementary, South Orange Middle School and Maplewood Middle School helping provide more opportunities for students to learn, play, and enjoy the game.

    The donations brought together parents, donors, coaches, and school representatives to celebrate a shared commitment to supporting local students through sports.

    Donations will continue this year across SOMSD schools.

    See photos from each school donation below.

  • Sold-Out SOMA Swish Raises Funds for All SOMSD Elementary Schools

    Sold-Out SOMA Swish Raises Funds for All SOMSD Elementary Schools

    The second Annual SOMA Swish fundraiser took place on Sunday, April 19 in the Columbia High School Gym, raising funds for elementary school PTAs across the South Orange-Maplewood School District.

    SOMA Swish is a district-wide elementary school basketball tournament jointly organized by the PTAs from all six elementary schools in the SOMSD with the shared goal of raising funds that directly benefit programming and initiatives at each school.

    Started in 2024 as a community-building event between Seth Boyden and Clinton Elementary, SOMA Swish expanded to include all six elementary schools in 2025. This year’s event was a sold-out triple header with over 2,500 people in attendance, bringing parents, caregivers, students, staff, and alumni together during three matches to strengthen our community and raise funds for student experiences.

    The success of this year’s event is a true testament to the strength of the unity in the SOMSD community and what we can accomplish when we all work together to support our schools.
  • New Summer Camp: SOMA Cougars Girls Basketball

    New Summer Camp: SOMA Cougars Girls Basketball

    Come join the Columbia High School Girls Basketball coaches and players, led by varsity coach Aaron Breitman, for a fun week of skills, fundamentals, basketball IQ, and games! This girls-only camp is designed to help players grow their confidence and develop their game while learning directly from members of the CHS Girls Varsity team, who will serve as camp counselors throughout the week.

    TWO sessions:
    📅 Week of August 10
    📅 Week of August 17

    Open to rising 5th–8th grade girls
    ⏰ Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
    📍 Baird Basketball Courts (indoor + outdoor courts)

    Register on South Orange Recreation
  • Friday Night High School League Doubles In Size

    Friday Night High School League Doubles In Size

    Friday Night Lights is taking on new meaning in SOMA.

    The SOMA Hoops high school rec league—self-led and run by the players— has been lighting up the SOMS gym on Friday nights this winter.

    The nationwide stats tell us that 70% of kids drop out of organized sports by the age of 13, but we’ve seen our high school division double over the last year, with over 40 kids having fun on the court with friends. Community hoops for the win!

    Photo by Max Fraidstern, @photos.bymax