Gadsden City and Gaston were among 32 high schools that recently were awarded a $2,500 grant in the Alabama Power Foundation’s Power To Play program. The grants will help the schools increase participation.
Grant recipients were determined through an online voting process that gave communities across the state the chance to show their support for the competing schools. To be eligible to receive a grant, schools needed to reach a minimum of 250 votes.
“Participation in high school sports fosters accountability, dedication and leadership skills and is correlated to higher academic achievement,” said Alabama Power Foundation president John Hudson. “The foundation is proud to support student athletes across the state through Power To Play.”
Other high schools receiving Power to Player grants were Alexandria, Alma Bryant (Irvington), Appalachian (Oneonta), Ashford, Ashville, Autaugaville, Billingsley, Carroll (Ozark), Central-Hayneville, Cordova High, Dadeville, Dale County (Midland City), Demopolis, Dora, Eufaula, Florala, Fultondale, Greenville, Houston County (Columbia), J.F. Shields (Beatrice), Jemison, Monroe County (Monroeville), Montevallo, Oakman, Opelika, South Lamar (Millport), St. Clair County (Odenville), Sweet Water, Vigor (Pritchard) and Williamson (Mobile).
This is the second year for the Power To Play grant program, which focuses on the importance of keeping students active in sports. Research shows that students who participate in athletics get better grades and are more likely to graduate from high school, among other benefits.