BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Clark Athletic Center in Boston was booming with activity on Thursday as kids and law enforcement took to the courts for the annual Basketball for Peace tournament.
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office held the yearly event, intending to bring the local Suffolk County youth and police together for some friendly competition. Kids of all ages went up against each other with law enforcement watching and helping, sharing smiles and swishes on the court.
Michael Roberts, chief of external affairs at the Suffolk County DA’s Office, believes the program is a great way to create bonds within communities and expand those already created.
“This is an opportunity for these kids to get together, get to know one another. But more importantly, it’s a chance for our office to get out from the courtroom walls… and meet these kids where they’re comfortable here out on the basketball court,” Roberts said.
Law Enforcement did not play, but stayed involved through reffing, coaching, and score keeping.
The children involved were equally as excited about the returning event. David from Chinatown has come back for his third year to meet and play with other communities.
“Coming back it’s like a reunion for me, and it’s nice meeting them again and again, playing with them, getting to know them better and connecting with them,” David said. “It’s like building bridges between different neighborhoods and communities.”
DA Kevin Hayden also attended and presented awards to community leaders at the event, highlighting the work and dedication to helping the youth and neighborhoods.
Many think the college location helps, too.
“For a lot of kids, it might be their first opportunity on a college campus, this is something that they should be looking at down the line.” Roberts said.
WBZ’S Jared Brosnan (@JaredBrosnanWBZ) reports.