STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Unity Games, a combination of basketball games with youth activities mixed in, help promote respect and tolerance among the youth of the community.
This year’s 21st annual Unity Games will take place on Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15, with a team selection on Saturday, Feb. 28, at 9 a.m. at the Joan and Alan Bernikow JCC on Manor Road in Sea View.
The process is mandatory to participate in the games, which take place two weeks later.
The team selection is a way of creating teams that are equal in culture and ability.
The innovative project born through the efforts of longtime friends Dr. Mark Sherman and Jacob Carey, continues to gather city youngsters of all ethnicities over their love of basketball.
Unity Games co-founders Mark Sherman and Jacob Carey.File photo
“This is not a tryout,” says Dr. Sherman. “Everyone who registers for the games and comes to team selection is automatically in!”
The games are geared for boys and girls in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades and the event has been expanded to those who reside throughout the metropolitan area.
The colorful Unity Games symbol. (Courtesy/Dr. Mark Sherman)Staten Island Advance
It’s a combination of basketball games combined with youth activities during a number of fun weekend activities.
Topics discussed are gang and drug awareness, cyber bullying, overcoming obstacles, cultural sensitivity, health and fitness, and other topics prevalent among today’s teens.
Youngsters pose for a photo at the recent Unity Games Reunion at the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island in Sea View. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Mark Sherman)Dr. Mark Sherman
The goal? To improve community relationships among young people and build a better understanding of one another and — even make new friendships along the way.
“Basketball brings the kids in, but the essence of the games is their education,” notes Dr. Sherman.
“Friendships are formed and fears are erased. The basketball, game room, two hot meals a day, closing ceremony, guest speakers and entertainment, all contribute to why this event has been nationally recognized, and a success for all these years,” he adds.
And it’s not too early to reserve.
Throughout the years some 3,500 children have already participated — and they keep returning — with many volunteers graduates of the program, and coaches for their teams.
The hub of the games remains at Susan Wagner High School with the JCC and St. Rita’s also participating.
“We are greatly indebted to the JCC, as they have always donated the use of their building for these games,” says Dr. Sherman.
The webpage is open and registration has begun — www.theunitygames.com
Donations can be processed through the website, inasmuch as the games are free.
The Unity Games are always looking for volunteers who also can register on the webpage.
This year there are several new workshops, which are more interactive than ever, with a number of new instructors who’ve climbed on board.