Three years ago, the Union Township Education Association (UTEA) started a youth basketball program for third- and fourth-grade girls to fill the vacuum created by the lack of students on the district’s sports teams before the start of middle school.
“UTEA is committed to serving the families of Union Township, not only in school, but also outside of school,” said UTEA Principal Ann Margaret Shannon.” With the assistance of the NJEA PRIDE and FAST programs, UTEA members offer programs that complement students’ school experiences with enrichment activities that go beyond the traditional textbook.”
During the program, UTEA members run an introductory clinic for third graders. At the end of the program, each player received a basketball to encourage them to keep playing.
Shannon said the intramural league for fourth-graders is very competitive. on Nov. 3, the fourth-grade season ended with an undefeated 5-0 record for the Battle Mountain varsity basketball team. In addition to basketball fundamentals, players learn about teamwork, respecting authority figures (such as coaches, referees and police officers) and how to adopt a healthy lifestyle through exercise.
The union’s Recreation Department and the Police Activities League (PAL) have been partners in the program since its inception, with PAL providing assistant coaches for each of the six teams.
“This is a great way to show UTEA’s appreciation for our students, and it’s also a great feeder program for area teams,” said Shannon.
+ There are no comments
Add yours