WNBA All-Star players teamed up with R&B singer Trevor Jackson and Miss USA Erin Brady to help dedicate a newly refurbished basketball court and conduct a fitness clinic for elementary students on Friday at Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School (BDJMS) in New London, CT.
The middle school court was recently refurbished by Bona, the official hardwood floor care partner of the WNBA.
Bona and Jamba Juice, a WNBA FIT partner, helped conduct the fitness clinic that included 75 boys and girls from New London Parks & Recreation.
Maya Moore, Tina Charles, Ivory Latta, Allison Hightower and Lindsay Whalen were among the all-stars who helped put on the Fit Clinic for young students. The players lead different stations and drills for the children, including working on lay-ups, shooting and even jumping rope.
“There are a lot of elementary school kids here getting the chance to participate in different activities,” Minnesota Lynx player Maya Moore told theGrio. “It’s all to encourage them to enjoy a healthy, fit, active lifestyle, and just to have fun.”
“I’m glad I continue to make them proud,” the former University of Connecticut star said about her college fans. “Being back in Connecticut is always great.”
Moore said she enjoys giving back and being “a good role model for the kids here.”
“It’s nice to be out here today, give back to the community and the kids,” Connecticut Sun guard Allison Hightower said. “It’s very important because if you’re not active now, you won’t be active when you’re older.”
“We’re trying to get [the children] active, show them the different things they can do at home or at school,” Tina Charles (Connecticut Sun) said.
Staying fit and healthy hit home for Charles, who told theGrio that her mom was diagnosed with diabetes about a year and a half ago.
“We’re trying to push the eating healthy thing and staying fit. I walk with my mom almost every day, so we’re trying to do a lot more things to stay fit and help her be healthy.”
Sixteen-year-old R&B singer Trevor Jackson was also in attendance, taking part in the Fit Clinic.
“I definitely think it’s important to stay fit, stay healthy,” the “Drop It” singer said. “That way you can do whatever you want to and nothing is keeping you back from your dreams.”
“It’s a fun day for the kids, and it’s a fun day for us,” said Minnesota Lynx guard Lindsay Whalen.
The WNBA All-Stars were all smiles while showing the importance of healthy eating and staying fit.
Follow Carrie Healey on Twitter @CarrieHeals.