New Basketball Court and Scholarship Fund in Memory of Nekwan Sprauve

By Malik Stevens

Early in the month of May, St. John was struck with the unexpected passing of 15-year-old Nekwan “Neko” Sprauve.

Nekwan, who had always been in a life-long battle with sickle cell anemia, came down with a serious illness, which has been speculated to be Dengue Fever.  After a couple days of putting up a difficult fight, the young man’s life was brought to an early end.

Nekwan is survived by both his parents, his older sister and two younger brothers, to whom we all wish sincere condolences in this time of mourning and re-adjustment.

Though suffering from a serious case of sickle cell anemia while alive, “Neko” as he was affectionately called by his family and friends, never let his sickness slow him down.

Nekwan was a hard-working student at the Gifft Hill School, who pushed himself to be able to partake in the school’s athletics as a member of the school’s basketball and flag-football teams.

 

He was also a long-time member of the Love City Pan Dragons, where he was able to channel his love for music. For those who might not know him, but are familiar with the band, Neko was one of the happiest boys on the tenor base who had the biggest smile and the most rhythmical movement while performing.

 

Nekwan was a loving son, brother, cousin, student, athlete and performer and no matter where he was or what he was doing, he had the ability to make those around him laugh and feel more light spirited.

In loving memory of Nekwan Sprauve the Gifft Hill School is constructing a new basketball half-court and garden at its upper campus in remembrance of his presence at the school and life on St. John. 
This court will be positioned to the front side of the school building, and is expected to be completed early enough for the students of the 2010-2011 school year to enjoy.

As these students dribble up and down this new half court, the main intention is for them to remember their good friend Neko, and also to realize that life tomorrow is not guaranteed. It could be a reminder for students to live each day as if it was their last, putting their best foot forward.

In addition to the Nekwan Sprauve Memorial Half Court, GHS is also establishing a scholarship fund in Nekwan’s name. This scholarship will be for students who exhibit excellence in athletics and in the arts and music, as well as possessing Nekwan’s positive character and outlook on life. The initial goal for this scholarship fund is $25,000.

Although Nekwan has left us at a early age, he is off to a better place and though he is now gone, he will not be forgotten. The Gifft Hill School efforts will guarantee this.

To donate to any of the above efforts please contact Beth Jones or Molly Murrill in the GHS Development Office at 776-1730 or ghsdevelopment@mac.com. Or feel free to contribute online at http://www.giffthillschool.org/support_donate.html.