Hoops program lets everyone play

The Rockville Centre Basketball League is giving special-needs children a chance to enjoy the game of basketball through its inclusion program.

The “Hoops for All” program, which was started three years ago, is a free basketball clinic for special-needs children in grades 4 to 12 that allows participants to enjoy all aspects of the game.

About 35 children signed up for the two sessions on Jan. 8. All of them learned how to dribble, pass and shoot at different stations before participating in scrimmages and other competitions. When necessary, lower hoops were used to help the children shoot the ball.

“This is a great program for kids who may not be able to play in a regular league, but still want to play,” said event organizer Patty Basile.  

Several physical therapists and dozens of volunteers, including members of the South Side and Sacred Heart high school varsity basketball teams, were on hand to provide assistance during the event.

“I am very lucky to have so many volunteers come and help,” said Basile. “I actually have a wait list to help.”  

The Tommy Brull Foundation provided t-shirts for all of the players. The foundation raises money to benefit people and organizations that are dedicated to serving people with physical, mental and emotional challenges on Long Island.

The next clinic will be on Jan. 22 at the Rockville Centre Recreation Center. There will be two others on Feb. 5 and 12.