For the fourth consecutive year, the Kalles Junior High School girls basketball program hosted a memorable evening that transcended the game.

The Kalles Tyees may have faced the Glacier View Avalanche in a rivalry hoops contest on Jan. 10, but the focus was on something much bigger.

Before the night began, a multitude of players from both squads donated pairs of brand new shoes to Samaritan’s Feet, a non-profit organization founded by Manny Ohonme in 2002. The organization’s mission is to provide shoes for improvised children around the world.

More than 50 pairs of shoes were collected during the evening in honor of Samaritan’s Feet in an effort to raise awareness about the large contingent of children in the world who go through their daily lives without shoes.

I commend Kalles head basketball coach Todd Fletcher for making the Samaritan’s Feet basketball game an annual event in the heart of downtown Puyallup.

I fondly recall the inaugural Samaritan’s Feet basketball game in 2010. The atmosphere and turnout was electric. As I exited the gymnasium that night, I hoped the event would become a tradition.

Those hopes have indeed become a reality because of Fletcher’s efforts and enthusiasm. The Samaritan’s Feet event benefits not only children in dire need of shoes across the world, it teaches the youth of our community the true meaning of giving.

Ten years from now, I wouldn’t be shocked to see the annual Samaritan’s Feet running strong in early January. Not I only would I not be surprised, I expect it to happen.

Sports Editor Shaun Scott can be reached at 253-552-7002 or by email at shaun.scott@puyallupherald.com.