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Oklahoma Cavalry To Partner With Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Oklahoma

December 5, 2007 - Continental Basketball Association 1 (CBA 1)
Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry News Release


LAWTON, OKLA.- The Oklahoma Cavalry will team up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma during the 2007-08 season as the Cavs look to give back to deserving youth in the area.

Through the Sports Buddy system, Cavs players will interact with youth at designated team functions 1-2 times per month providing mentorship and a positive influence for the kids. The first group activity is scheduled for Dec. 15 when the Cavs will play a major role in a Christmas Party. More details will soon follow.

Onreka Givens, MCOP (Mentoring Children of Promise) coordinator, said she is glad to have this partnership with the Cavs and is grateful for the tickets that are provided for the organization every game.

"The main excitement for us is getting to see the kids we have on a waiting list finally have the chance to interact with positive mentors," Givens said. "It is also wonderful that our kids have the opportunity to attend the Cavs games when they otherwise would not be able to."

The Cavs have donated 40 tickets to every home game for Big Brothers Big Sisters from the Cavs Corner, a foundation established to benefit youth in the area.

This will not only be a rewarding experience for the kids involved, but also the players and coaches who will be participating as well.

Cavs player and Lawton's own Malcolm Johnson said he and the team have a lot to offer to the kids they will be mentoring to, and he said he is looking forward to getting involved with the organization.

"This is a real good thing," Johnson said. "I, personally, have always wanted to do something like this but I didn't know how to get started. Now I have the opportunity."

Cavs Assistant Coach Derrick Rowland said he is eager to meet and spend time with the youngsters, and said it will be a great opportunity for both the team and the kids.

"This will be a nice blend of life and sports," Rowland said. "It will be great to be able to share experiences with these kids. Leadership is key and invaluable in this line of work, and this is what being a professional coach and player is all about."

In addition to providing positive role models for the youth in Comanche County, the Cavs have helped Big Brothers Big Sisters secure new mentors as well. Big Brothers Big Sisters set up a booth and passed out information at the Cavs first four home games in November, and those that signed up to become a Big Brother or Sister had the chance to win season tickets to the remaining home games. Approximately 25 people signed up at the games to become mentors through the organization.

The lucky winners were chosen at half-time of the Nov. 28 game, Lucius Gordon and Jasmine Mitzs. They will split the season tickets, and their little brother and little sister will attend all games with them. There is no doubt that it will be a gratifying experience for all involved.

"I decided to become a mentor, because I want to be a positive role model for the younger youth who do not have a big brother or someone else to look up to," Lucius Gordon said. "I want to be that someone who can teach them the right way in life."

For over 100 years Big Brothers Big Sisters has provided mentorship programs for youth all across the nation, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma will continue to uphold the organization's philosophy in helping to build healthy and bright futures for the youth in our state.

If you are interested in becoming a mentor or want to find out more information on the programs the organization provides, please call Onreka Givens at 580-355-3902.



Continental Basketball Association 1 Stories from December 5, 2007


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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