FIRST IN FITNESS
-What is it?
Former elementary physical education teacher, Ben Tench, established "First in Fitness" over 30 years ago. The event is one of the oldest on-going physical fitness events in the country. Over 50 elementary schools and 22 middle schools will be sending teams of students to compete in a variety of fitness events including the mile run, pull-ups, speed rope, shuttle run, standing long jump, 100-yard dash, and a modified triathlon for fifth graders.
Ben's idea has grown from a single event involving a handful of schools and about 100 students, to a massive county-wide spectacle involving over 70 schools with thousands of participants, spectators, event coordinators, high school PEPI students, and judges. Over 6,000 parents, students, teachers, and other guests will attend and/or participate in this year's events.
Last year we came in 4th place out of 26 schools and have finished in the top 5 in each of our previous years. Students are selected based on their fitness assessment scores done during Physical Education classes. Student conduct and work ethic is also big a factor.
-Who can participate?
All students are given the opportunity to be part of the First in Fitness team. Unfortunately, there are only 50 spots available. During the first semester, all 2nd-5th grade students will be tested in each event area, mentioned above. A total of 12 students per grade level (one boy and one girl for each event) will be selected to represent Leesville.
-When do we practice?
Whole team practice will start in January every Wednesday and Friday from 8:15-8:45.
Full practice schedule will be available to view in December.