The Growth League activities emphasize values, problem-solving and group participation, with athletic performance being only a small part of individual and team success. This program is designed to use basketball and classroom problem-solving methods to help young people be more effective members of a team. Individuals and the team as a whole are learning how to accept responsibility, show respect to teammates and coaches alike and demonstrate leadership.

During spring 19997, more than 200 students participated in the program. The students ranged from sixth- to eighth-graders. The two participating schools were the Robert Gould Shaw Middle School and the Frank V. Thompson Middle School.


Program Operation

These students work in teams on projects to improve themselves, their school and neighborhoods for 14 Saturdays. The curriculum was broken up into two-thirds classroom activities and one-third basketball clinics. The teams worked on problem-solving issues in the classrooms and then practiced basketball skills on the court. The boys and girls learned teamwork skills and formed friendships through playing sports together.

All the participating youth received color-specific T-shirts and hats for their respective team. Reebok also donated both boys' and girls' sneakers for the kids and their coaches.

Participants at the Shaw receive guidance from 35 trained volunteer teachers/coaches. The program was directed by Boston Celtics legend JoJo White. The program was coordinated by Lisa Donnelly. Coaches and trainers were composed of Sport in Society staff members and others.


Walt Disney World Trip to Orlando

In December of 1997, selected Growth League All-Stars took a weekend trip with center staff chaperones to Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Fla., as a reward for the completion of the program.

The Growth League was concluded at the end of 1997.