Rochester Senior and McDonald's All American Honored with Sendoff

Submitted by Patrick Sullivan

The Rochester High School gymnasium was filled with cheers again Tuesday afternoon as the boys basketball team, cheerleaders, athletic staff and McDonald's representatives held a good luck sendoff for Rochester senior and Michigan's only 2013 McDonald's All American, James Young.

After a bright high school career that culminated with Rochester's first region title since 1950, Young was selected as one of just 24 boys basketball players from across the nation to compete in the McDonald's All American Games, April 3 at the United Center in Chicago.

The All American honor is well earned, according to those who know Young.

"It's not everyday that you have a McDonald's All-American walk through your doors," remarked Rochester High School Athletic Director Luke Beach during the sendoff. "James is not only a fantastic player, but also a great student and teammate."

Local McDonald's operator William Saputo, Jr., who was also in attendance for the sendoff, expressed a great sense of local pride.

"As a McDonald’s operator in Rochester, I am proud to have a local player representing our community on a national stage such as the McDonald’s All American Games," said Saputo. "We wish James much success not only in the Games next week, but also in his collegiate career at Kentucky, both in the classroom and on the basketball court."

Since 1978, more than 1,100 players have competed in the McDonald’s All American Games, forming an elite list of some of the top names in basketball history including, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Derrick Rose, Sylvia Fowles, Candace Parker and Maya Moore.

Net proceeds from the Games will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). The Games have raised more than $10 million for RMHC since 1978.