Community Update
November 15, 2023
South Bend and Raymond School Districts have combined to launch the RSB Ravens girls' basketball team as the newest addition to the RSB Ravens programs.
The combine is rooted in a shared commitment to student opportunity and inclusivity, ensuring that every high school girl has the chance to participate in basketball, regardless of the number of players each school can field independently. Initial discussions to merge the teams began over the summer, with both districts agreeing to a seamless transition. However, the Raymond school board later withdrew from the initial agreement due to unforeseen circumstances, only to reapproach South Bend on November 10, 2023, with a renewed proposal in light of low student turnout.
In a cooperative spirit, and acknowledging the past success of other RSB Ravens teams, both districts have expedited preparations to facilitate the new girls team. Joint practices will be conducted at both South Bend and Raymond facilities. The coaching staff will be a blend of Raymond's current staff—Jason Koski, Makenna Williams, and Butch Betrozoff—and South Bend's Macy Karlsvik will be an assistant coach. Athletic Directors Jon Schray from South Bend and Mike Tully from Raymond have both been working hard with program logistics and support.
The RSB Ravens' first practices have already kicked off with a spirit of teamwork and camaraderie, mirroring the previous RSB combines. The promising start signals a season of unity and strength for all girls. New uniforms representing the RSB Ravens have been ordered; in the interim, athletes will don South Bend and Raymond uniforms alternately, symbolizing the unity of the new program.
"We recognize the less-than-ideal nature of the timing of this change and are grateful for the community's adaptability and support. Ensuring the student experience remains the focal point of these efforts is a priority," says South Bend superintendent Jon Tienhaara. "The Raymond school administration and superintendent K.C. Johnson have been great to work with and have been working hard to make the transition as best as possible." "As the season unfolds, we anticipate the community's continued support for the RSB Ravens and the deepening of the ties and teamwork our shared athletic programs have cultivated between our two schools and student bodies." "Our decisions are always with the best interests all students in mind. We have a lot of hope the girls from both schools will have a good experience and successful season," Tienhaara concludes.
A revised game schedule will be forthcoming. Please watch for further information on school district social media and website channels.
