Police and children join forces this week for the start of another season of a basketball league designed to keep kids out of trouble and maintain a positive attitude both on and off the court.
The Wilmington Police Athletic League (PAL) is currently recruiting children ages 8-10 for the start of a new season, according to Wilmington Police Department Spokeswoman Cathryn Lindsay. Practice for the PAL program started this week with practice running Monday through Thursday, Lindsay said.
The league’s first game will be Oct. 13. Practices and regular season games will take place at the Brigade Boys and Girls Club, 2759 Vance St., and the Community Boys and Girls Club, 901 Nixon St. in Wilmington.
“The Police Athletic League is an athletic-based program designed to connect police officers with the youth in their community by engaging boys and girls in positive activities that improve their quality of life, present developmental opportunities, and offer the prospect of a brighter future,” according to the police department’s website.
“Its concept is based on the belief that if kids are reached early enough they can develop strong positive attitudes toward police officers in their journey through life toward the goal of maturity and good citizenship.”
Registration is still open, Lindsay said. Click here for a printable registration form.
For more information, contact Wilmington Police Department Officer Brandon Reece at (910) 520-3852 or [email protected].
Past coverage:
Police Athletic League hoops travel team clinches first tournament win in first season
Police, children find common ground on basketball court
Grant would aid crime lab, police basketball league
Police Athletic League recruiting youths for new season of positive hoops
