Donkey basketball returns to Royal High School

ROYAL CITY — A former tradition is making a comeback to Royal High School following a nearly decade-long hiatus.

On Tuesday, Feb. 20, students and adults will have the opportunity to saddle up a donkey and play a game of basketball.

“It’s fun to watch,’ said FFA director, Rick Kannely.

The event will be held at 7 p.m. in the high school gymnasium, and is sponsored by the FFA along with other career and technical based clubs/classes (CTE). Kannely explained that Feb. 20 was chosen as the date for the event because it is the day after a four-day weekend and also happens to be part of FFA Week.

Donkey Sports Inc., of Entiat will be providing the donkeys for the game. The donkeys will be wearing rubber shoes to protect the hardwood floor in the gym Kannely said. Shovels and towels will also be on hand to help keep the gym intact.

Players must be ages 16-50 years old to participate, with a weight limit of 200 lbs. Each game will last about 10 minutes, giving more people a chance to play as well as preventing the donkeys from getting worn out too fast.

To sign up for teams, call Rick Kannely at Royal High School, 509-346-2222. Students will be placed first followed by adults. Teams can be mixed with students and adults Kannely explained.

Tickets for the event may also be purchased at the high school office, or from students. Tickets purchased in advance are $8 for adults, $6 for student’s grades 7-12, and $4 for students grades K-6. Ticket prices at the door are $5 for students grades K-6, $7 for 7-12th grade students and $9 for adults.