ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – Dozens of local high school basketball players gathered at a tournament Saturday in St. Johns County to remember former Creekside coach Alicia Gladden.
Gladden was killed in car accident by a drunken driver in April 2013. The community is remembering her positive presence in the community and spreading the word about the dangers of driving under the influence.
A total of eight teams played in the second annual tournament from Creekside, Ponte Vedra, Nease and Providence high schools. The mission of the tournament is to spread the message about drunken driving and distracted driving.
Gladden, 27, who many called "Coach Ice," was a very important member of the athletics program at Creekside High School.
Growing up, she played at Orange Park High School, then starred at Florida State University, where she made history.
After graduation, Gladden went pro, playing for several different countries in European basketball leagues.
But it was when she moved back that she found her true love -- teaching and mentoring.
"She showed them love. She showed them the love for basketball that she had and it reflected on them," said Marcus Ford of Creekside High School Athletics. "They started to love basketball as much as she did, so she made a lasting impression and we only knew her for a couple of months."
Ford said while Mothers Against Drunk Driving sponsors the event by giving out pamphlets and bracelets, anyone is welcome to donate to the cause to keep the message alive.