Event includes All-Star Challenge, with adapted sports drills
— United Disability Services (UDS) will host its 2nd annual All-Star Jam Youth Skills Clinic, Friday, July 27, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the St. Vincent-St. Mary LeBron James Arena.
The free basketball skills clinic is led by Willie McGee, St. Vincent-St. Mary director of athletics, and sponsored by PNC. The event is an addition to the organization’s All-Star Jam 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament fundraiser, which takes place Saturday, July 28, at the same location.
Boys and girls of all abilities in grades 3 through 8 will have the opportunity to learn new basketball skills or strengthen existing ones under the guidance of experienced local coaches and volunteers.
New this year, participants will also have the opportunity to sample several of the sports offered by United Disability Services’ All-Star Training Club inclusive sports program by taking the All-Star Challenge.
Youth may test their skills by participating in football, track, soccer and baseball challenges. Adapted drills for both the basketball skills clinic and All-Star Challenge will be available so that everyone may participate. Last year more than 80 children participated in the event.
McGee, who has dedicated himself to motivating and mentoring disadvantaged youth, will share his personal story as this year’s special guest speaker. He was a part of the “Akron Fab 5” that won the National High School Basketball Championship for St. Vincent-St. Mary in 2003. McGee holds a bachelor’s degree in information systems from Fairmont State University and a master’s degree in sports science/coaching from The University of Akron.
In 2016, he was honored as the recipient of the BMe Award that recognizes men for outstanding leadership and service to the community, and he is the founder of D.A.L.E., a nonprofit organization focusing on discipline, athletics, leadership and education. Last year he was recognized by the Greater Akron Chamber with a 30 for the Future Award. He sits on several community boards including the South Akron Youth Ministry, Touchdown Club, DSA, and the LeBron James Classic and has starred in the documentary film, “More than a Game.”
The skills clinic is free and lunch will be provided. Registration deadline is Friday, July 20. For more info or to register, contact call (330) 762-9755 or email [email protected].
