Boyle Brothers continue another season of Knights of Columbus Kids Hoops Starting Saturday

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.  Or, in this case, apples.  The tree being a true Butte character who truly defines what the word "generous" truly means, Bernie Boyle.  Not only has Bernie dedicated his professional career to serving others as a distinguished and respected retired Butte firefighter, he has been the man behind the Butte Knights of Columbus Hall for as long as I, or just about anybody, can remember.

Bernie and a young Hunter Boyle at a Tech game a few seasons back. Photo: Tommy O/Townsquare Media

The Butte KC Hall is a living shrine to Mining City sports.  Although many consider the K of C to be Butte Central exclusive, the Butte High Bulldogs and all of the other public schools, past and present, have teams enshrined on the walls of the hall and displayed just as proudly as their Maroon counterparts.  It is with that sprit of community and Butte pride that Bernie has for decades been behind the Knights of Columbus Kids Hoops program which runs on Saturdays during the fall and winter.  Since 1995 to be exact.  He has now passed the torch on to his sons, Dan and Tom, and his grandson, Hunter, who are carrying on the tradition again this year with the first session this Saturday.

Here's how it works.  Your kid wants to play some basketball?  Just show up.  They will have a session on a 7-foot hoop for kids up to third grade and for older kids who cannot make a shot on a 10-foot hoop.  This session will run from 9am to 10:30am.  Next will be a session for kids up to 6th grade and it will run from 10:30am to noon.  The sessions are free and open to boys and girls and the KC Hall is at 224 W. Park Street.  Use the Idaho street door for gym access.