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January 16, 2012
SPRINGFIELD — As the need for more youth-oriented programs and services continues to grow, the YMCA of Greater Springfield and the Springfield Armor basketball organization are taking matters into their own hands.
Recently, the two organizations announced enhancements to their partnership, which will take youth basketball to a new level throughout the greater Springfield region.
Plans include a series of events and program-based collaborations that will involve Springfield Armor coaches and players conducting basketball clinics for youth throughout the region; making special appearances at YMCA basketball league games, community celebrations, and various fund-raising events; and participating in after-school, physical fitness and literacy programs for area youth.
“More and more, we are seeing a direct correlation between kids’ successful performances in school and their participation in sports and extracurricular activities,” Kirk Smith, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Springfield, said. “We are grateful to have partners like the Armor who share our commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility and understand that it takes solid partnerships like ours to truly affect positive change in the lives of the youth and families in our community.”
This latest development in the relationship comes after more than two years of collaboration between the YMCA and the Armor. During that time, the YMCA provided use of its gymnasium and workout facilities for the team, while the team agreed to provide tickets, promote the YMCA and make special appearances at YMCA events.
Also, the Armor hosted a very successful coaches’ clinic for area basketball coaches; and invited members of the community to attend team practices at the YMCA.
“We’re thrilled to be expanding our partnership with the YMCA of Greater Springfield,” Alex Schwerin, president of the Springfield Armor, said. “Our organization has benefited tremendously from our involvement with the Y and we’re looking forward to continuing to enhance our partnership moving forward.”
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