George Hill isn’t wasting any time making an imprint on the city that raised him.
Having been traded to the Indiana Pacers from the San Antonio Spurs in June, Hill says he’s excited to be home and is looking to be more actively involved in his foundation, George Hill Rising Stars. He is organizing a youth basketball league and clinic from Aug. 20-Sept. 24 at Lighthouse Academy, 4002 N. Franklin Road. Parents will have the option of selecting either Saturday or Sunday for their child to participate.
“We realize that around this time a lot of kids are playing either football and soccer, but for those kids who still wanted to play basketball we wanted to give them an outlet to stay active,” said Mike Saunders who runs Hill’s foundation. “We’re going to give kids basic basketball instruction. We want to teach kids how to be basketball players and teach them life skills on how to act on and off the court.”
Registration for the clinic is $55 per child in grades 1-8. Parents also have the option to decide if they want their child to play up a grade or if they want their child in an advanced or developmental league. In addition, coaches can bring their teams to participate as well and receive a discount on the registration fee.
“We’re also giving kids who don’t regularly play basketball the opportunity to come to our camp,” said Saunders. “It gives them something to do other than staying in the house, playing video games or hanging out in the street getting in trouble. We’re trying to give kids an opportunity to stay busy.”
Hill, who himself is staying active during the NBA lockout, will be in attendance during the clinic. However, due to a hectic schedule he won’t be able to attend every Saturday or Sunday session. In his absence, there will be NBA players, along with high school and college coaches to instruct the participants.
“George plans to be there,” said Saunders. “One of the reasons we’re doing the clinic now is because he had some free time. He does have other commitments, but he will be in attendance.”
To register, coach or volunteer for George Hill Rising Stars Youth Basketball League & Clinic go to www.georgehillrisingstars.org.
George Hill stands with young fans before a game at Conseco Fieldhouse while still a member of the San Antonio Spurs.
