Wareham Middle School students were jumping and shooting hoops at the chance to raise funds and fight heart disease this week.

On Thursday and Friday, students participated in the annual Hoops for Heart event, which raises funds and awareness for the American Heart Association.

Inside the school’s gym, kids bounced basketballs, took jump shots and played pickup game throughout both days.

Physical education teacher Nichole Stahmer said students in all grades raised money from friends and family for the event.

“They set goals and were really good about reaching them,” she said. “All of the money helps the American Heart Association, whether it’s putting defibrillators in schools, research or bringing in educational speakers to raise awareness.”

Stahmer and physical education teacher David Brogioli, who is also the high school girls basketball coach, coordinated the program.

Stahmer added that the event shows students the importance of physical fitness for hearth health, while providing an opportunity to give back.

That lesson was not lost on sixth grade student Amaya Anderson.

“We’re helping the American Heart Association help people,” she said. “The money goes towards getting people the support and medicine they need to be healthy.”

More information about Hoops for Heart and the American Heart Association is available online at: www.heart.org.