Donkey Basketball: A Hermiston FFA Tradition
Hermiston FFA holds a donkey basketball game event.
Are you looking for a way to bring more excitement to your chapter? Hoping to find new ways to engage members or attract alumni involvement? If so, you may want to add donkey basketball to your activity list.
Imagine this: students riding donkeys while playing basketball on a full varsity court. It sounds chaotic, hilarious, and maybe a little ridiculous, and that is exactly why it works. The donkeys even wear protective booties to keep the gym floor safe, while riders are equipped with the necessary safety gear. The result is endless laughter, unforgettable memories and an event members talk about for months.
At Hermiston FFA chapter, donkey basketball has quickly become a tradition. Classes compete against one another, creating playful rivalries and bringing students together in a way few other activities can. It builds camaraderie between members while encouraging involvement from students who may not normally participate in chapter events.
Donkey basketball is an incredible way to increase chapter engagement and visibility.
One of the best parts about donkey basketball is that there is a role for everyone. While some members take the court, others help behind the scenes. Ticket sellers, announcers, scorekeepers, and the crowd-favorite “pooper scoopers” all play an important role in making the event successful. Even members who are not comfortable riding a donkey can still contribute and feel included.
Beyond the fun itself, donkey basketball is an incredible way to increase chapter engagement and visibility. Before the event even begins, members cannot stop talking about it. Posters go up around the school, conversations spread through the halls, and excitement builds leading up to game night. As the saying goes, “any publicity is good publicity.” Events like this help showcase the welcoming and fun atmosphere of FFA while introducing new students and community members to what our chapter is all about.
One of the chapter advisors, Mr. McKay, has been at the forefront of bringing donkey basketball to Hermiston. For years, he joked about making it happen, but last year we realized it could truly become a reality for our chapter. Since then, the event has become one of the most anticipated activities of the year.
Donkey basketball builds camaraderie between members while encouraging involvement from students who may not normally participate in chapter events.
And if your chapter does not own donkeys, do not worry. Companies can be hired to bring the donkeys, equipment, and setup directly to you. All your chapter has to do is bring the energy and enthusiasm.
At the end of the day, donkey basketball is more than just a funny event. It is an opportunity to create memories and remind members why being involved in FFA is so special.
