Superior youth to compete at state free-throw tourney

A Superior youth will compete in the Montana State Championship Free Throw competition in Livingston next month.

Carson Toivonen, a second-grader at Superior Elementary School, won the District Hoop Shoot Free Throw Championship last weekend. It was held at the Salish Kootenai College in Pablo where Carson, 8, competed against other area youth in his age group, which was boys 8 to 9 year old.

His father, Chris Toivonen, used to coach varsity basketball in Superior and currently coaches the Little Guys basketball team.

“I’ve lived here for almost 20 years and have ran some of the competitions. I believe this is the first time since I’ve been here that someone from Superior has made it to state,” he said.

The Elks Hoop Shoot is sponsored by the Elks Foundation and competition goes all the way up to nationals. It’s open to ages 8 to 13 with boys and girls divisions. The Elks Lodge in Thompson Falls sponsors the district competition. Toivonen said Mike Thilmony is the head of operations, and the lodge does a great job of making sure area kids have a chance to compete.

To get to state, Carson competed in Superior and won first place. From there he traveled to Thompson Falls, where he shot against youth from the area, including Noxon, Plains and Trout Creek. At district, he made 18 out of 25 shots, which was one more than the nearest competitor.

Carson grew up around basketball and enjoys the sport. His dad said that while he was coaching, Carson “couldn’t wait to get in there and play.” In addition to playing in Superior, he also plays AAU basketball with his brother. Their team is currently undefeated.

“We’ll keep practicing to get ready for state,” Toivonen said, “and I know he’ll enjoy the experience.”

After state in Livingston, the winner will travel to Chicago on April 22 for nationals.