STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Integrated Athletic Initiative has unveiled plans to build an 18,000-square-foot community sports center on Staten Island, coinciding with the conclusion of its four-week inclusive basketball league that served 125 youth with disabilities.
The Land to Legacy Campaign seeks to transform donated land at Androvette Street and Kreischer Street into a permanent home for year-round inclusive sports programming. DOU Plumbing and Mike Boccieri donated the property nearly two years ago, according to Sal Fabozzi, chair of The Initiative.
“From the day the land was donated, we understood the responsibility and opportunity in front of us,” Fabozzi said. “We’ve been carefully planning, meeting with partners, exploring design possibilities, and ensuring that what we build is sustainable and impactful for generations.”
The organization launched the fundraising campaign during Championship Sunday, the culmination of its Inclusive Basketball League sponsored by EEP Law. Athletes participated in four consecutive weeks of games and skill-building activities focused on teamwork, physical fitness and confidence.
The league brings together youth of all abilities rather than separating participants by skill level. The program emphasizes integration among special needs, underserved and mainstream youth.
Terry Taubman, parent of a participant, said the championship game gave families a chance to watch the athletes compete. “It gives family and friends the chance to watch the kids play and their smiles truly say it all,” Taubman said.
Erica Forero, whose son Jaxon has participated for eight years, said the program has transformed her child beyond basketball skills. “It has boosted his confidence and helped mold him into an incredible basketball player, but more importantly, it’s helped him grow as a person,” Forero said. “He’s learned so much about himself and has connected with other kids who each have their own unique stories and journeys.”
The proposed facility will include a full-sized basketball court and a turf field for soccer and football. Four classrooms will host educational workshops, mentorship programs and coaching clinics. A mezzanine level will provide office space for program operations, and the building will feature ADA-compliant restrooms and locker rooms.
Anthony Passalacqua, co-chair of The Initiative, said the campaign aims to create lasting access to sports for all children. “It’s about creating a space where every child, regardless of ability or background, has the opportunity to grow, compete and belong,” Passalacqua said. “Every donation moves us closer to opening doors that will remain open for generations.”
The organization accepts donations at theintegratedathleticinitiative.com/land-to-legacy.