Jan. 27, 2013

Photo Gallery

Bronx, N.Y. -

Prior to the basketball game with the University of Rhode Island on Saturday, members of the Fordham University men's basketball program took some time to teach the game to some of their younger fans who are members of the New York Athletic Club (NYAC) Saturday Morning program.

Director of basketball operations Mike DePaoli greeted the boys and girls at 10 AM, explaining the importance of teamwork and communications on the court. He also ran the group through various defensive drills, including the art of taking a charge.

The children then split into groups for skill sessions that included, dribbling, passing, rebounding and shooting with members of the Fordham men's basketball team including DC Gaitley, Khalid Robinson, Nihad Musovic and Leo Walsh, along with managers Sean Lawless, Frank Petric and Nick Stanaj and video coordinator Steven Raisfeld.

Head coach Tom Pecora closed out the session by speaking with the youngsters. He stressed to them that he needed their help when the game started. "I'm asking for our help. During the game, you'll hear me yelling on the bench and I need you to be yelling and cheering from the stands. I need you guys to make this building loud and to show your support for Fordham!"

Prior to the game, the group was treated to a pizza lunch and then took their seat in the Rose Hill Gym for the Atlantic 10 matchup. And the kids took Pecora's request to heart, cheering from the opening tip to the Rhode Island's missed three-pointer at the buzzer as Fordham defeated the visitors, 66-63.

Founded in 1896, the NYAC Saturday Morning Program has introduced hundreds of boys and girls to the benefits of sports, physical fitness, teamwork and social skills. The Program takes place each Saturday from fall to winter, and again in the summer. It is open to all NYAC members' children, aged seven to 15.