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Stingers hoop it up at YM-YWHA 

Athletes from the Stingers men’s basketball team had a chance to give back to the community as they dribbled, deked and dunked with kids at the YM-YWHA Wolves basketball clinic on Jan. 28.

Around 85 boys and girls from the Wolves Elementary School League brushed up on their shooting, passing and rebounding skills in the event, which was open to all. They also worked on lay-ups and defense, with a little goofing around thrown in for good measure.

“The turnout keeps building each year,” said organizer David Bloom, who does double duty as YM-YWHA basketball director and assistant coach of the Stingers squad. “It’s a great environment for the kids.”

The Stingers have participated in the annual event since its inception three years ago. Their strong commitment to community engagement is well known. Head Coach John Dore encourages his team to get involved with local organizations whenever possible, like the YMCA and Sun Youth. They also host the annual GMAA high school basketball all-star game at the Loyola gym.

“The guys feel lucky to be where they are, playing for Concordia and being athletes,” Bloom said of the Stingers. “They realize the importance of helping up and coming kids.”