The inaugural Eisenhower Cup fall sports season has wrapped up, and while Lansing and Leavenworth each earned a few trophies, the biggest winners were the students and families who benefited from the communities' generosity.

Throughout the fall season, Lansing USD 469 and Leavenworth USD 453 collected more than 2,000 items to help stock four student food pantries across the two districts.

The Eisenhower Cup began as a way to bring the neighboring communities together through a little friendly competition while supporting families in need. The idea grew from conversations about community nights at athletic events and a partnership with Shane Varner, General Manager of Main Street in Lansing.

Main Street helped make the initiative possible by providing two pickup trucks, one red for Lansing and one blue for Leavenworth, along with the Eisenhower Cup trophy. Fans were encouraged to bring donations to participating athletic events throughout the season.

And, of course, there were bragging rights on the line!

Lansing USD 469 earned three fall sports trophies:

• Middle School Football

• High School Volleyball

• High School Soccer

Leavenworth USD 453 claimed two:

• Middle School Volleyball

• High School Football

Beyond the competition, the first season showed what can happen when two neighboring communities work toward a common goal.

Thank you to everyone who contributed donations, attended games, and helped make the inaugural season a success. Special recognition goes to Mrs. Lussier for her support at Lansing Middle School events, Ms. Christina Heslep for assisting at the Lansing High School football game, and the Leavenworth High School National Honor Society students for volunteering at their home events.

The Eisenhower Cup continues this winter, with Lansing and Leavenworth meeting again on the basketball court and wrestling mat.

Lansing Middle School and Richard Warren Middle School will compete in boys and girls basketball, while Lansing High School and Leavenworth High School will face off in boys and girls basketball and boys wrestling.

Thank you to Main Street, our student volunteers, and both communities for helping turn a friendly rivalry into something that makes a difference for local families. We look forward to seeing what we can accomplish together this winter!