The Hooplandia team works year-round and around the shot clock to bring you the Northeast’s Ultimate Basketball Tourney + Festival. However, our mission would not be possible without the community partners we have made along the way. On Saturday, November 15, our new street team captain, Anthony Ardolino; Eastern States Exposition's (ESE) Assistant Director of Education and Human Resources, Samanatha DePergola; and ESE's Director of Sales, Tim Garstka, attended the fifth annual Springfield Ballers Gala.
The Springfield Ballers provide affordable opportunities to youth in athletics. The organization offers programs that promote academic achievement, physical health and wellness to shape and support well-rounded student athletes. They instill core values in their players, including respect, care for the community, leadership, inclusion and a desire for intellectual success.
The Ballers Gala annually recognizes coaches, student athletes and other leaders from the basketball community. Guests support the organization by participating in silent auctions and raffles as well as by making donations. Proceeds sustain the year-round programming offered by the Springfield Ballers, including mentorship opportunities and after-school activities.
“The Springfield Ballers Gala has grown impressively in a year’s time,” said Samantha DePergola, Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) assistant director of education and human resources. “In a world where children are relying on technology more for socializing, the work that the Ballers do is important for building face-to-face connections. They offer a safe environment for growth and attaining new skills.
“The evening brought together many members of the community that do not have the chance to see one another in any other setting,” she continued. “The gala keeps the Ballers’ critical work moving forward, and it was amazing to see and hear more about their impact during presentations.”
The Hooplandia team is grateful for our partnership with the Springfield Ballers and all that they do to advance basketball in Greater Springfield.