Basketball Program Engages Youth

citizen |

by Thelma Sardin

For 28 years, the Biddy Basketball Program at South Central Community Services, Inc. (SCCS), 1021 East 83rd Street has helped keep kids safe while teaching them how to become leaders. For participants, the season begins in November and coincides with high school and middle school basketball team seasons. Starting the season in November allows the league to have pre-season conditioning and physical fitness activities that consist of teaching skills like shooting and dribbling, but students also learn how to become better citizens.

Biddy is a developmental basketball league that stresses team work among its participants. Jamal Cornelious, community services administrator at SCCS said. Its a program where children learn how to work together, he added.

The basketball program just concluded its 28th season and the next season is scheduled to begin this November. The program is a co-ed basketball program where girls are encouraged to join. Its mission is to encourage children to become better citizens by focusing on civic engagement and leadership. Another aim is to help fight obesity.

Right now, program organizers are looking for corporate sponsors who can help provide services to youth who are not able to pay the registration and program fees. Participants must pay a combined registration and program fee of $60. The program fee includes uniforms, practice, games, awards and a banquet ticket.

The program also helps keep youth active and off the streets. Participants arrive for practice directly after school and must complete their homework before starting practice. Practice ends at 7:30 p.m. and during that time the players stick to a structured schedule.

For more information about the Biddy Basketball Program, please call 773-483-0412.

Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

STARR Community Services International, Inc.