Monday, January 21, 2008

Mercy College Basketball Teams Hold Free Clinic for Area Children

DOBBS FERRY, NY - As part of "Jammin' January", the Mercy College men's and women's basketball teams held a free youth clinic for children ages 6 - 11 on Saturday prior to their doubleheader versus C.W. Post at Dobbs Ferry High School. 

A total of 45 boys and girls from several different towns in surrounding communities (Dobbs Ferry, Hastings on Hudson, Irvington, Yonkers, Yorktown Heights, Shrub Oak, Katonah, and Valley Cottage) attended the one hour event.  The men's and women's basketball coaches and student-athletes instructed on the fundamentals of the game, including dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding and defense.  Following the clinic, children got a chance to play during warmups and many stayed to enjoy the varsity doubleheader.

"The turnout was tremendous. I cannot thank the area youth basketball organizations enough for bringing their kids out to take part in the clinic," said Tony Staffiere, Mercy's head men's basketball coach. "I enjoyed working with all the kids. Our student-athletes had a great time and I think they learned just how many young children look up to them. It was special to be in a position to give back to the community. I hope each one of them left with one more skill learned and we look forward to seeing them at future events."

Mercy's next special event for children will take place on Saturday, January 26, when the Mavericks host Queens on "Take a Kid to a Game Day". Area children age 11 and under are invited to attend the doubleheader and receive a free ticket with the purchase of a full-priced adult ticket. Children will have the opportunity to experience the college game-day atmosphere, receive autographs, be recognized at each half-time, and enjoy some exciting NCAA Division II action. The women's game will tip-off at 1:00 p.m., followed by the men at 3:00 p.m., at Dobbs Ferry High School.