Two Claps for BYS Plus Teen League!

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Anyone who has been in the gym on a Sunday morning for our teen league program at Suny Purchase can attest to the fact that Backyard Sports Cares is far more than just sports. Beginning in 2008 with just a handful of nervous young athletes and a couple of eager coaches, the teen league has blossomed into something truly special. With genuine peer companionship and dozens of joyful and willing peer volunteers; the teen league has grown tremendously, forcing Backyard Sports to grow with it.

The teen league has grown not only in size but also in meaning. When you walk into the gym on a Sunday morning and feel the vibes and see all the smiling faces, it does not take long to realize that you are a part of something special. Over the years, our athletes and volunteers have developed genuine friendships and are excited to come every week to participate in programming that they would otherwise have very limited access to.

Reverse Inclusion has also become a key ingredient in our recipe for success. Our teens have really turned
this program into their own, inviting our peer volunteers to compete with them in basketball, soccer, tennis or most recently GaGa. Led by Coach Minotti, our teens are also excited to challenge themselves, learn new skills and acknowledge each other’s accomplishments with the famous “two claps” as we wrap up each session. We look forward to seeing our teen league continue to grow and develop as

these dedicated athletes become young adults and continue to play for years to come. It is safe to say that our teen league definitely deserves two claps!

Coach’s Corner: Plain White T’s

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

I draw great inspiration and motivation from the James Kerr book, Legacy, which details the unparalleled success of the New Zealand Rugby Club, the All-Blacks, considered by many to be the dominating international athletic team of any sport. Their superiority, Kerr writes, is not only about athletic prowess, but, about a character- and culture- driven mindset which … Continue reading “Coach’s Corner: Plain White T’s”

I Love BYSC!

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

Our staff, coaches, and volunteers dedicate their time to make sure that all participants have the best time possible. From our BYSC Plus programs, to our community events, our mission at Backyard Sports Cares stays the same. We want to help all underserved and special needs children grow their skills, form long term relationships with … Continue reading “I Love BYSC!”

Volunteer BUZZ: Karina Eaton

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

Hello, Backyard Sports families! My name is Karina Eaton. I’m one of the Senior Presidents of the Backyard Sports Cares Club at Mamaroneck High School. I’ve been part of Backyard Sports since my Freshman year. It is definitely my favorite club; I love working with each and every kid. During my time at BYSC I … Continue reading “Volunteer BUZZ: Karina Eaton”

Support Our Ga-ga Initiative

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

In the spring of 2018, Backyard Sports Cares, in conjunction with our community and family partners, will undertake a Ga-ga initiative with the plan to build six Ga-ga units in deserving schools and play areas throughout Westchester. Ga-ga is a playground game played in an eight sided walled area commonly known as a Pit. Players … Continue reading “Support Our Ga-ga Initiative”

Upcoming BYSC Events For 2018!

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

Join us this spring for a fun day of activities, amazing food, drinks, and laughs while celebrating our involvement in the community with family, staff, volunteers, and sponsors.   5th Annual BYSC 3vs3 Basketball Tournament Our annual 3vs3 Basketball Tournament to support Backyard Sports Cares will be returning once again this Fall on Sunday, Oct. … Continue reading “Upcoming BYSC Events For 2018!”

Lakeland Special Needs

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

On a Saturday afternoon at the Van Cortlandtville Elementary School, you can find the gym filled with energetic and caring volunteers who are ready to team up with their young and equally energetic athletes. Preparing to work on their basketball skills, these unique pairs begin their warm up together. Volunteers help their athletes by teaching … Continue reading “Lakeland Special Needs”

Spotlight on a Board Member: Zach Sawyer

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Categories Vol. 10 Winter 2018

This summer I had the opportunity to travel to Brant Lake Camp with New Flex Youth Program. We started the trip off at the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course. This set the stage for the weekend. At the ropes course we all learned the power of team work. Kids were getting over fears and then turning … Continue reading “Spotlight on a Board Member: Zach Sawyer”