A new program through the Albany County District Attorney’s Office aims to provide a safe place for kids to get coaching and mentorship. It’s called “Court Vision Academy.”
It is a basketball instruction program being held at the Tony Clement Center for Education in West Hill.
The details of the program were announced at a press event Friday night. District Attorney David Soares was joined by anti-drug agencies and local education leaders.
Every Friday and Saturday night for 19 weeks, participants get basketball instruction from coaches, a free meal, and a safe space to hang out from 5 to 9 p.m. They can take up to 50 kids, ages 8-17, each night.
Every 19 weeks, a new group of boys and girls can join the program. Soares says this will be the first program of its kind in the Capital Region.
“This program is like a life lesson. It isn't just fun and games, it is a life lesson,” said 12-year-old Joshua Wallace.
“When I get better and have tryouts I can make the team,” said his friend and fellow 12-year-old Tigene Wimbish, looking to use what he’s learned while playing for his school.
The program is free. To learn how you can apply to have your child join, call the Albany County Community Justice Outreach Center at 518-275-4735.
