Teens To Take Big Shots Against Substance Abuse

Main Category: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Article Date: 17 Apr 2009 - 7:00 PDT

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions   rate article

A basketball tournament put on by teens for teens may be a big step in preventing teen substance abuse. Among those attending the April 18 tournament, organized by the Loudoun Do Something Now Club, will be Washington Mystics player Nikki Blue and Joe Harrington, director of men's basketball student-athlete services at the University of Maryland.

This first "Big Shots 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament" is open to all high school students between the ages of 14-18. It takes place on Saturday, April 18, 5 to 10 p.m., at the Loudoun Valley High School, 340 N. Maple Ave., Purcellville, Va., 20132. Sponsors are GEICO and the Rost Foundation.

The evening will be filled with organized 3 on 3 tournaments, shoot-out contests, free pizza, a live DJ, and an appearance by the GEICO Gecko.

The Loudoun County 2009 Youth Alcohol Drug Abuse Prevention Project Plan Team, which includes the Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, Sheriff's Department, Loudoun Do Something NOW and Loudoun Valley High School, has organized the evening to help teens tackle the issue of teen substance abuse.

"The student organizers went to a seminar to learn how to address the issue of teen substance abuse, and from the training they thought of the Big Shots Tournament as an alternative to drinking or drugs," said Rhonda Walker, Loudoun Do Something Now adult sponsor.

"Teens from all over the area can spend their Saturday shooting some basketball and meeting kids facing similar situations. We will also have professionals explaining how kids can lead a healthy lifestyle, and if a teen is already struggling with substance abuse, we will have information on where they can go to get help."

"Young people in our communities are faced with tough choices every day, but finding an alternative to alcohol or drugs shouldn't be one of them," said Rynthia Rost, GEICO vice president. "GEICO is committed to helping teens make smart decisions, and we are pleased to sponsor a group of such committed teens and community members who are working toward that same goal."

About the Washington Mystics

The Washington Mystics organization is dedicated to providing affordable entertainment, serving as a dynamic community partner and maintaining accessibility to positive female role models. Supported by passionate fans, the Mystics are elite, hardworking athletes continually striving to win a Championship.

About GEICO

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is the third-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States based on the latest 12 months written premium. It provides auto insurance coverage for 9 million policyholders and insures some 15 million vehicles.

Source
GEICO