Students watch as a presentation honoring Kelsey MacBride, Tyson Knapp and Dr. Clark plays during the men’s and women’s basketball game on Monday, Jan. 5 in Roberts Gym. Photo by Sam Enlund
Webster Groves basketball programs honored Kelsey MacBride, Tyson Knapp and Jon Clark on Monday, Jan. 5. The men’s team played Saint Louis University High, and the women’s team played Parkway North High School.
Both teams ended up winning the games: The men’s team won 83-62, and the women’s team won 50-42.
In support of the event and in memory of MacBride, Knapp and Dr. Clark, many current students, alumni, and staff were in attendance at the game. Between games everyone in attendance listened to a presentation to honor those lost to cancer. The presentation included details about the people who have been lost, and the activities and programs that they were involved in, including the things that were most important to them.
Junior Jackson Tabash said, “It was important for the community because Kelsey, Tyson and Dr. Clark were all amazing people from Webster, and everyone loved them, so it meant a lot to us to go out and play for them.”
Head women’s basketball coach Annie Lybarger said, “Honoring these three individuals meant a great deal to our specific program. Kelsey played basketball her freshman year and created bonds with many of the girls. She grew up with the majority of our junior basketball players, and I know she holds a close place in their hearts. Tyson was a member of our boys’ squad team. The Squad Boys would come to practice, volunteering their time to help us prepare for games. Tyson also brought his smile, humor and hustle when he showed up for us.”
Lybarger added, “And Dr. Clark was not only the assistant principal when I was at Webster, but the father of our assistant Varsity coach, Jenna Clark. Dr. Clark impacted so many in our community and had a love for Webster Girls’ basketball. Even after retirement, Dr. Clark came to many of our games to cheer us on. All three left a mark on our program and impacted our WG community in so many ways.”
MacBride was one of the lives honored on Jan. 5. She was a member of the women’s basketball team and a friend to many still currently playing on the women’s basketball team.
About MacBride, junior Opal Hayes said, “Kelsey was just like a ray of sunshine, because sometimes the season can be really long, but every day Kelsey came in with just a big smile on her face, and she always made everyone laugh even when we’ve gone through a hard day or had a long day at school.”
About honoring MacBride, junior Kyndal Richardson said, “It felt good. It was a good night to remember her and honor her in that way.”
Alongside MacBride, Knapp was also heavily involved in the basketball program and served as a manager for the men’s team.
Senior Quincy Williams said, “Tyson was a part of our boys’ basketball team. He brought so much to our team that many don’t see. He not only played but also managed. Some players on the team never got to play with Tyson or be on the team while he was managing, but I know I can never forget the full-of-laughs moments with Tyson. Hits a special place for me and, I know, to anybody that was a part of those teams with Ty.”
Williams also added, “[Knapp] will always hold a special place in my heart and to me. I will always honor Tyson in every game I play.”
Men’s Varsity head coach Justin Mathes describes Dr. Clark and his involvement within the school and the community.
Mathes said, “Dr. Clark is one of the most influential people in our community in decades. His work ethic, passion for students, and leadership helped elevate our entire school district. He invested deeply in our kids and always kept them the focus.”
Both coaches, Mathes and Lybarger, wanted to raise money to help and partner with the American Cancer Society.
Mathes said, “We wanted to raise money for the Kelsey MacBryde Memorial Trust and partner with the American Cancer Society. Look for more ways to help the ACS in the fight for a cure at the upcoming girls’ tournament (Webster Winter Classic) in February.”
The women’s team for the last three years have worked with Coaches vs Cancer for the team’s tournament held in February. Last year, MacBride was honored before each game, something the women’s team wants to continue again this year.
This year, the women’s tournament, the Webster Winter Challenge, will take place in Robert’s Gym, and will be Tuesday, Feb. 2, to Saturday, Feb. 7.
Sam Enlund-Social Media/Sports Editor
This will be Sam Enlund’s third year on ECHO staff. She also made several contributions while taking journalism class her freshman year.
