“Tornado” Basketball School bid farewell to the 2008 graduates: saying goodbye to one of the most successful generations in the school’s history.

2026 birželis 12 d., penktadienis

On June 10, the “Tornado” Basketball School officially concluded the 2025/2026 season. During the traditional season closing ceremony, graduates of the school – boys born in 2008 – were honored, symbolic season starting five players were awarded, the “Tornadietis of the Year” and best coach were announced, and special recognition was given to community members who significantly contributed to the school’s activities.

Graduation ceremonies, which have become a beautiful tradition, were filled with both smiles and emotion. This year, as many as 40 players completed their journey at the “Tornado” Basketball School, coached over the years by Aivaras Grigaliūnas, Mindaugas Kvietkus, Raimondas Zakrys, and Andrius Macijauskas.

A particularly special evening was dedicated to one of the most outstanding generations in the school’s history. The team led by coach Aivaras Grigaliūnas – “Tornado KM – Xiaomi” – became the most decorated generation in the school’s history. The boys collected three Lithuanian Moksleivių krepšinio lygos championship titles, one runner-up finish, and bronze medals. Their most memorable achievement was winning the prestigious U18 championship, marking the peak of years of development and hard work.

The evening also traditionally featured the final friendly game, symbolically closing an important stage of life. However, the event was not only about the players. The school also expressed gratitude to those who stood behind them throughout the years – the parents, who became an inseparable part of the team.

For their sincere support, initiative, and continuous involvement, appreciation awards were presented to Donatas Šeputis, Marius Pulkauskas, and Aistė and Audrius Daugėla. For the second year in a row, the “Fan of the Year” award was also presented. This year it went to loyal “Tornado” supporter Tomas Stašinskas, whose dedication extends far beyond a single team – he regularly attends games of various school squads.

School director Dainius Čiuprinskas thanked the entire community for their contribution to the growth of “Tornado”:

“Only with such a strong backbone – parents who sincerely support and help – can we grow, improve, and build a strong basketball school every year.”

One of the most emotional moments of the evening was the farewell speech by coach Aivaras Grigaliūnas. The coach led the 2008 generation to the U18 championship title and, with the U16 team, proved they could compete with the strongest teams in the country, narrowly missing out on a Final Four appearance.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening was the farewell speech by coach Aivaras Grigaliūnas to the graduates:

“Today we gathered as if for another final. Only this final is different, yet with the same level of excitement and responsibility. First of all, I want to thank the parents for your trust and support – you were a great example to your children and an important part of our victories. I also want to thank the ‘Tornado’ administration, the coaches, and of course the boys we are here for today. Over these eight years we experienced a lot – big wins, painful losses, misunderstandings, and countless unforgettable moments. But that is life. In sport and in life you need endurance, discipline, and courage. I believe each of you has everything it takes to achieve your dreams. The most important thing is to stay true to yourself, keep the desire to grow, and believe in your own abilities. Be proud of what you have already achieved, but even more of what lies ahead. May every victory start with belief in yourself. Thank you for this unforgettable journey together. Let’s not forget each other and let’s remain friends.”

We sincerely thank the young “Cheer Up Dancers” for their energetic performances, which brought even more festive spirit to the event. We also thank all graduates, their families, friends, coaches, the “Tornado” 2009 team for the impressive cake, and the entire basketball school community.

A special thank you goes to the parents who over the years have become a strong support not only for their children but for the entire team. Your support, care, community spirit, and involvement helped create a celebration that will remain in everyone’s memories for a long time.

We wish all graduates courage as they step into new life stages, success in achieving their goals, and that they never forget the values learned through sport. The doors of the “Tornado” Basketball School will always remain open to you – as part of our history, our community, and as an inspiration to younger players.