This year’s “Ernie Tourney” kicks off the 2014 holiday season

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This past summer, the ALS ice bucket challenge raised millions of dollars for ALS research and spread awareness around the country. While most of the public is familiar with the ice bucket challenge, not everyone understands the severity of the disease and most people do not personally know anyone who suffers from it. ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, has had an impact at CHS. Former CHS junior varsity boys basketball coach, Ernie Wallengren, was diagnosed with the disease and passed away in 2003.

Each year since Wallengren’s passing, his family has made it their goal to fund raise as much funding as possible to donate to ALS treatment and research. Their mission is to generate revenue by orchestrating an event honoring Ernie’s true passion, basketball. On Dec. 26, 27, 29 and 30, the Ernie Tourney will once again be held in the CHS gym to gather donations towards both the CHS basketball program and towards a cure for ALS.

Few students at CHS ever met Wallengren but Geometry teacher, Satish Kayatsha, had the privilege of knowing him. Kayastha coached two of Wallengren’s sons, worked with him, and even played “pick up” games with him on Sunday mornings.

“He was a good person, a hard worker, a great family man, and he loved the game of basketball,” said Kayastha, “I hope these events continue the way they have to help Ernie’s memory live on, allow people to enjoy the game of basketball, and to try and help put an end to the terrible disease of ALS.”

The CHS gym will be packed with supporters this winter honoring Ernie Wallengren and his favorite pastime, basketball.

“We want to help ensure that other families don’t have to endure the pain we faced when we lost Ernie to ALS,” said Claire Peterson, Ernie’s mother on the family website.

Wallengren’s life will be remembered and honored through his annual tournament. Since his passing, the Wallengren family has raised thousands for ALS research. Join the movement and come support the Coyotes at the Ernie Tourney this winter break. Wallengren’s memory inspire all to celebrate life. His story has changed the lives of others and has prevented many ALS patients and their families from suffering.