MATTAPOISETT — As Old Hammondtown School sixth grade students and staff stepped on to the basketball court at Old Rochester Regional High School Friday, March 15, an undefeated record hung in the balance.

When coached by Old Hammondtown Principal Kevin Tavares, the sixth graders had never lost the staff-student charity ballgame, according to Tavares, who plans to retire at the end of the school year.

“I’m hoping that the students pull through for me tonight, keep my record intact,” Tavares said before tip-off.

That they did, as the sixth grade team won 72-49 against staff at the 12th edition of the Old Hammondtown matchup.

Over the years, the game has become a school and town-wide event, according to Tavares.

Physical education teacher Chad Cabeceiras first came with the idea more than a decade ago. He led the faculty team, which was joined by a pair of local police officers.

Also at the game was the Old Hammondtown pep band, who performed as action unfolded on the court, and the Old Rochester Regional Junior Cheerleaders, who performed at halftime.

“It’s been a great school event,” Tavares said.

Old Hammondtown School also partnered with Acushnet charity Gifts to Give to collect new or gently used clothing at the game.

At the end of the first half, Old Hammondtown faculty led 27-24. Following the halftime cheer performance, sixth grade students presented Tavares with a gift, a signed basketball.

Thereafter, the sixth graders proceeded to establish a commanding lead, maintained for the duration of the staff-student contest.

“Lot of pressure on the kids, but I know they’re going to come through for me,” Tavares had said prior to the game.