Brooklyn DA extends at-risk youth basketball program through winter

August 19, 2013 Editorial Staff

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In hopes to combat crime in Brownsville, District Attorney Charles J. Hynes has announced that he will extend his “Drill and Play Basketball Training Initiative,” which is free and open to children 11 to 18, until the winter.

“The goal of this program is to offer at-risk youths in areas where violence and gang activity, an enticing alternative during the high-crime weekend evening hours,” said Hynes.

With sponsorship from NYPD, NYCHA, Good Shepherd Services, Pro-Hoops, Inc. and New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, the free basketball training program has 130 players and will end their summer season at the Van Dyke Community Center on August 23. Players are welcomed to join the fall/winter session beginning on Friday August 30 and running until December 27.

“Together we are providing our young people with a safe, engaging, and fun Friday night activity,” said Kathy Gordon, Assistant Executive Director for Brooklyn Community-Based Programs. “It is so wonderful to offer exposure to positive role models and genuine relationships that go far beyond the basketball court.”

With Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance, Jr.’s “Saturday Night Lights” as a model, Hynes created the “Drill and Play Basketball Training Initiative,” where improving skills is not the main focus. He hopes to keep at-risk children off the streets now and in the future and focuses on teaching lessons they can take with them throughout their lives.

The young athletes are trained by Pro-Hoops Inc a professional program that works with college and professional athletes, currently meeting with the middle and high school children each Friday night from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Van Dyke Community Center.

“Youth sports play a vital role teaching players about teamwork, sportsmanship, hard work, dedication, follow-through and self-esteem, said Hynes, “Lessons they will need long after they leave the court, to help them succeed throughout their lives.”

The summer program which was funded by HDTA, received a lot of participation from the children in the daytime Good Shepherd Services programs. For more information on the fall/winter session or to register call the Van Dyke Community Center at 347-750-8906.