March 13, 2025

Newton YMCA to host annual fundraiser

By Kate Malott

Granny Erika Frahm sets herself up for a shot during the second annual Granny Basketball game at Berg Middle School in 2015. More than $2,000 was raised for the Newton YMCA and the United Way of Jasper County during the event. (File Photo)

The Newton YMCA has partnered with area businesses for its annual Granny Basketball fundraiser.

The public is invited to watch a fun and competitive rivalry between the Monroe Mustangs Granny Basketball team vs. Newton Community Leaders from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Berg Middle School, 1900 N. Fifth Ave. E. in Newton.

Freewill donations will be accepted for admission. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

A pie and dessert auction will take place at halftime.

The game is a spirited, fun event playing six-on-six old style women’s basketball and will combine old-time women’s basketball rules with entertainment.

The Granny Basketball League of Iowa was created in 2005 to provide a nostalgic, fun and competitive activity for women  over the age of 50. Its other mission is to be an avenue for charitable giving. The league has raised more than $200,000 for charities.

“The game is the kickoff for the Newton YMCA’s Annual Support Campaign” Newton YMCA Associate Executive Director Rhonda Robson said.  “The campaign helps to raise money for those in need.  Through this financial assistance, the Y can offer help  in the areas of child care, summer camp, programs like swim lessons, swim team and youth sports and it even helps with YMCA memberships.”

“I think it will be a fun time to get together and support the YMCA,” Cline Tool Chief Financial Officer Jason Benson said.

Benson will be joining many other individuals on the community team.

Members of the Community leaders team include: Abigail Pelzer, Newton Daily News; Chad Robson, City of Newton; Joel Jones, Newton Hy-Vee; Jimmy Small, Iowa Speedway; Chaz Allen, Iowa State Senator; John Lee, John Lee Photography; Jason Benson, Cline Tool; Beau Church, Community Heights Alliance Church; Esgar Guarin, Newton Clinic; and Andy Karr, Scott Taylor, Hannah Bartlett and Rhonda Robson, Newton YMCA.

The game will be announced by Mark Allen, of Edward Jones.

Members of the Monroe Mustangs Granny Basketball team include: Loretta Tool, Kris Garr, Violet Bakalar, Linda Donahue, June Donahue, Sue Gullion, Catherine Stout, Barb Dykstra, Teri Willemsen and P.J. Jesse. Monroe Mustags are captained by Barb Dykstra and coached by Cheryl Price.