30 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Ballersworld Global Foundation’s nonprofit mission statement is a slam dunk: To provide underserved youth with tools for success while preemptively tackling hardships, obstacles and access with sports being the catalyst. Foundation creator Ernest Gass believes every young person deserves a chance to succeed and reach their full potential. Gass’ heart is geared toward fostering and developing kids in the community. With the many distractions our youth face today, Ballersworld Global has taken steps to be a shield. “Our vision is to create future leaders and scholar athletes who are committed to making a positive impact on the world,” stated Gass. On Saturday, Sept. 28 you have an opportunity to support this great cause during the Battle on the Deck hoops event, which takes place from 11 a.m to 5 p.m. on the flight deck of the USS Yorktown with a backdrop of Charleston Harbor. “Ballersworld Global offers a free basketball league within our community providing opportunities for children to develop their skills and enjoy the game of basketball, regardless of their financial situation,” Gass said. The coaches are experienced and passionate about helping children learn and grow on and off the court. Creating a space for children ages 6 to 18 to play basketball, Ballersworld Global meets at least twice every other month. Established two years ago, there are now around 60 kids participating in the foundation. They’re determined to expand and reach more youth to create a positive impact in their lives. Besides basketball, the foundation offers the following programs: pickleball clinics and the Business and Ball mentorship. The Business and Ball mentorship program, a one-on-one mentorship initiative that meets bi-weekly for six months, incorporates the business end of sports. It focuses on the NIL rules that allow high school and middle school players to profit from their name, image and likeness. The nonprofit is looking for sponsorships and companies to invest in their vision. With more funds, Gass hopes to introduce a new program called the Hoops and Innovation League. The two-month comprehensive program would combine the skills of basketball with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concepts. “Students will understand how to collect, interpret and visualize data, enabling them to be able to make informed decisions and identify a player’s performance and display team strategies.” The Sixth Annual Battle on the Deck is open to all from youth to adults, and registration is now open. The tournament is 3 on 3 played on the flight deck of the Yorktown. Teams can range from three to five players, and the cost to play is $120 per team. There will be vendors, music, food and a career fair at the event. Spectators are encouraged to come and cheer on their favorite team and players. Hoops for Hope Scoring baskets for underserved youth For more information on the foundation, to register for the Battle on the Deck or to donate or sponsor please visit ballersworldglobal.org. BY MAURICE J. FRAZIER our town
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