NORD to host 2nd Annual Special Needs Basketball Camp
'The Milne Classic' on Saturday (Dec. 7)
NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD) Commission will host its second annual “Milne Classic” Basketball Camp on Saturday (Dec. 7) at 10 a.m. at Milne Recreation Center (5420 Franklin Ave.) University of New Orleans men’s head basketball coach Mark Slessinger, along with his staff and players, return to lead the clinic and drills for the second year.
“The City of New Orleans is working to provide equitable opportunities and to create better outcomes and environments for all of our people,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “It is important that we continue to build upon programs at NORD and throughout the city to ensure that we are focusing resources where they can have the most impact. With the coordination between NORD and the Office of Human Rights and Equity, we are working together to meet the needs of our special-needs community for access to programming that will promote better health, well-being and structure in their lives. I want to thank all of the parents, NORD staff and coaches, and the coaching staff and players of the University of New Orleans for giving their time and dedication to our kids and making sure this event is a success.”
Local schools, community organizations, and The Arc of Greater New Orleans will have players participating in this year’s event. Last year’s event drew nearly 100 participants. This year, new activities have been added, including shooting, passing and dribbling drills. There will also be vendors, food, music, team-building exercises, and a 5-on-5 game.
“NORD is focusing diligently to create inclusive opportunities for fitness, recreation, and leisure for youth, teens and adults, said Larry Barabino, Jr., NORD Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to hosting the 2nd annual Milne Classic basketball camp for our special-needs population; but more importantly we look forward to increasing events and programming that foster inclusion and enrich the community as a whole.”
Participation in “The Milne Classic” is free and open to the public. The clinic and games are limited to ages 10-18. All activities will be suited for youth of all abilities.
“Events like this break down barriers and demonstrate what we already know to be the case – people with disabilities regularly demonstrate excellence,” said Vincenzo Pasquantonio, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Human Rights and Equity. “We must continue to work hard and ensure that all of our residents are able to fully integrate into our community and its daily life.”
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