Sierra Vista High celebrated the return of its annual Staff vs. Students basketball game, bringing together students, teachers, and local fans for an unforgettable night. The event, first launched in 2013, has become a cherished tradition for the school and the surrounding community. Organized by Coach Sandra Duckering (Coach Duck), Sierra Vista’s Forensic Biology and Biology teacher and Girls Basketball Head Coach, the game serves as both a spirited competition and a unique opportunity for students and staff to connect.
This year, the "Old Skool" staff team faced off against the "Beastly Dons," a student team composed of girls’ junior varsity and varsity basketball players, along with senior members of the boys' varsity team—a mix that has become a tradition over the last three years. The game was played in four 10-minute quarters, with substitutions every two minutes to ensure all players had the chance to shine on the court.
“We’re 5-5 now,” said Coach Duckering, referring to the even split in wins between the staff and student teams over the years. “Every year, it’s a battle for the title.” The Beastly Dons took home the victory this year with a close final score of 54-46. The Dons’ victory was a testament to their speed, clever tricks, smart plays, and timely passes, showcasing the students' impressive skills on the court and keeping the crowd on their feet. For the Old Skool Staff, strengths lay in solid defense and sharp three-point shooting, challenging the Dons at every turn and thrilling the crowd with their long-range accuracy.
This year’s Old Skool team featured some familiar faces, including Assistant Principals Shelley Aguilar and Norma Cervantes, Community Schools Liaison Michele Durfee, and math teacher Gerardo Moreno, among others who brought their A-game and high spirits to the court. “It’s a time where students see our teachers, administrators, superintendent, and even the mayor having a good time in friendly competition,” Duckering shared. “They get to see us as regular people—laughing, cheering, and even dancing.” Also joining the lineup this year was Superintendent Dr. Froilan Mendoza. “It was fantastic to see Dr. Mendoza on the court. We got to spend time with him and connect casually, and just have fun.” Baldwin Park Mayor Emmanuel Estrada, a regular participant for the past three years, also joined the staff team. His presence and generosity, including a donation of a large-screen TV for the event raffle, underscored the spirit of community support.
Throughout the game, the crowd was treated to lively entertainment, including a DJ, an energetic MC providing real-time game commentary and humor, and audience-participation challenges like three-point and half-court shots. The atmosphere was electric as the gym echoed with cheers, laughter, and even dance breaks to crowd favorites like “Cha Cha Slide” and “La Chona.” Duckering, reflecting on the night’s success, said, “This game came at the perfect time to lift spirits and give everyone a chance to laugh together.”
Duckering emphasizes the impact the event has on promoting girls' basketball. “We started this competition to showcase our girls' athletics and their talent, especially since it’s hard for women’s sports to build a strong following. It’s great for the audience to get a preview of what our girls will accomplish during the season.”
With basketball season officially starting, the community can stay up-to-date with the Beastly Dons by following their latest schedule and game highlights on Instagram at @sierravistahsgirlsbasketball. The Staff vs. Students basketball game has grown to become a beloved event, not only spotlighting the talents of Sierra Vista’s athletes but also strengthening bonds within the school and the Baldwin Park community.
Photos
SV_Game1: The Beastly Dons celebrate their win against the Old Skool Staff.
SV_Game2: Senior Kristine Lozano waves during the team lineup announcement.
SV_Game3: BPUSD Superintendent Dr. Mendoza high fives his Old Skool teammates during the lineup announcement.
SV_Game4: Sophomore Evanna Malloy strides down the court during the 2024 Staff vs. Student Game.
SV_Game5: Senior Ivan Ingelmo attempts a jumpshot for 3 points during the Staff vs. Students Game.
SV_Game6: Math Teacher Guru Daniel Toohey MCs and raises the energy at the Staff vs. Student Game.
SV_Game7: Sophomore Zaira Eulloque attempts a free throw shot during the 2024 Staff vs. Student Game.
SV_Game8: Varsity Assistant Coach Rolando Robles attempts a free throw at the Staff vs. Student Game.
SV_Game9: Senior Dario De La Fuente avoids defense from SVHS Assistant Principal Norma Cervantes.
SV_Game10: From left to right, top to bottom: Brian Naito, Rolando Robles, Michelle Rosewitz, Mario Lopez, Araceli Castillo-Parrales, Gerardo Moreno, Mayor Emmanuel Estrada, Carlos Galvan, Dr. Froilan Mendoza, Martin Haro, Michelle Durfee, Jenna Guerrero, Sandra Duckering, Norma Cervantes, and Shelley Aguilar pose for a Old Skool 2024 team photo.