Old junior high gym brings back memories.

People gathered Saturday to reminisce about the old gymnasium at Cape Girardeau Central Junior High School, which is scheduled to be replaced by new administrative offices and other features beginning sometime in March.

Alyssa Nunley

Alyssa Nunley

What is your fondest memory of the gymnasium?

"This is where I had my first basketball game, ... and I fell coming right up the steps over there. I couldn't lay, but it was just the greatest time, doing it and looking up at the scoreboard."

Steve Griffith

Steve Griffith

What is your fondest memory of the gymnasium?

"I'm old. I graduated in 1961, but I remember one of our basketball games against Crystal City. ... They had a player by the name of Bill Bradley. ... They were really good, of course, but he later played for the New York Knickerbockers. He was a U.S. senator, and he considered running for president. ... He was big and tall and that, but I'll just never forget thinking, "This guy's really good."

Lauren Kimberly

Lauren Kimberly

What is your fondest memory of the gymnasium?

"In the seventh grade, we did [the musical] 'Cats,' and afterwards we would come in here and have a meet and greet. It was fun."

Gabe Dewrock

Gabe Dewrock

What is your fondest memory of the gymnasium?

"High school volleyball. ... I played every home game here. ... I just wished that these guys [my two daughters] would be able to play here too. We played when there was no air conditioning. ... We'd have to pull out one of the bleachers, run up and open up every single window up there, plus put a giant fan down here. ... It got pretty hot in August, doing two-a-days. ... Did a lot of wall sits on this wall, too."

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