On Sunday morning, the sounds of Wampanoag tribal drumming filled the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School gymnasium as the spirit of Waylon Sauer was remembered and honored during the second annual Waylon Sauer 3V3 basketball tournament.

Gradually the drumming by Durwood Vanderhoop and Tobias Vanderhoop gave way to sounds of basketballs hitting the hardwood, sneakers squeaking on the floor and the audience cheering as the games got underway.

Event began with Wampanoag ceremonial drumming. — Jonathan Fleischmann

The tournament was started last year by Waylon's classmates, Tayna Silva and Volkert Kleeman, as a way to remember their friend who died in a car accident in 2023. Waylon played basketball and hockey at the regional high school, and was a member of the Wampanoag tribe. 

The event also raises money for the Waylon Sauer Scholarship Fund, which goes to a graduating senior. This year’s tournament was made especially poignant as Sauer was a member of the class of 2025.

“Some people in our grade have gone to school with him since preschool,” Tayna Silva said. “When you have that close relationship with someone, it’s really hard to go through these big life moments when they’re not there. We definitely feel an absence.”

3V3 leads to lively competition. — Jonathan Fleischmann

Teams represented various parts of the Island, from students to adults to first responders. The competition was spirited and good natured. There were no refs and each game was played by the honor system.

Before the first tip off, Wenonah Madison, Waylon's mother, thanked the participants and the fans.

“It’s been very sweet, but it’s also really beautiful,” she said. “It’s a great way to hold on to memory, and it’s a really nice way to bring our community together.”

Waylon's brother Amos (kneeling) is backed by a strong team. — Jonathan Fleischmann

The tournament began with pool play, with each team playing seven five-minute games. After that, the top ranked four teams competed in the semifinals.

Team Washed Up proved their name wrong by taking home the title.

Volkert Kleeman thanked spectators and players for participating.

“I love seeing how strong the Island community is,” he said. “It’s so awesome to have a great turnout. Thank you all for making this possible and for showing up.”