By Jennifer Elskamp
Even though the Gwinnett Stripers lost their game, it was a win for the sixty eight 3rd-5th grade Buford Academy Chorus members by hitting a homerun on their performance during Saturday night’s opening weekend game at Coolray Field. The Academy Chorus members were invited by the Stripers to perform during the game. They have been sent an invitation to entertain the minor league franchise fans for the past few years.
Although they have performed several years at Coolray, this is the first time singing the traditional 7th inning stretch song “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”. The excitement and pride shown in each of the their of faces on the jumbotron as they sang. “You all did amazing and I am proud of each one of you.” Mr. Lenz said to the students as they returned to their seats to cheer on the Stripers in the remaining innings.
“It was so much fun! Actually, it was AWESOME! I felt so important being on the big screen. I had a great time watching the game, too.”
When asked his thought about performing at the game, Gary Lenz, Chorus Director for the Academy replied, “Along with the Christmas parade, this is the most fun the students get to have and represent the school and have a fundraiser at the same time.”
The chorus does not get any funding from the school budget so fundraisers are very important for them. It helps with things like extra chorus shirts, new music, and other needs that come up during the year. The continued support from friends and families during such fundraisers is very much appreciated.
