Governor Kay Ivey held a meeting with Oakwood Basketball Team in the Governor’s Office Tuesday March 8, 2022 in Montgomery, Ala. (Governor’s Office/Hal Yeager)
MONTGOMERY-Governor Kay Ivey this morning hosted the Oakwood Adventist Academy boys basketball team for a meeting in her office. In her original letter to the team, Governor Ivey invited the players and coaches to meet with her at the State Capitol. The governor opened the meeting by reminding the boys what an inspiration they have been to so many. Governor Ivey shared that she has heard from a variety of individuals on this issue – from constituents to lawmakers. She then asked each player to speak briefly. Each player shared their name, position and a key takeaway from the events that unfolded. Governor Ivey was impressed by their strong convictions, determination to do what is right and their positive outlook on life, even when things did not go their way. Governor Ivey concluded the meeting by asking the captain of the team his thoughts on things going forward.
Following the meeting, Governor Ivey also issued the following statement:
“Alabamians and even folks around the country have been in total admiration of the young men on the Oakwood Adventist Academy basketball team. These boys stuck by their convictions, pointing out that sometimes it hurts to obey God. No doubt, these boys are reminding us all that when we work together and do what is right, we will be better off. As one player noted, God challenged them, and they passed the test.” – Governor Kay Ivey
The Oakwood Adventist basketball of Huntsville team made the decision to forfeit its state playoff game because it fell on their Sabbath. The Alabama Athletic Association refused to change the play-off day for Oakwood Adventist even though two other teams offered to change game dates with them.
Media Release/Office of Alabama Governor Kay Ivey
