RAPID RIVER -- It's the 15th anniversary of the Detroit Pistons Youth Basketball Camp, and coaches put youngsters through a hard week of scrimmages and shooting contests.
“After that, we did layup lines,” explained participant, Jared Anderson. “We did games like hot shot and beat the pro. And it's really fun."
Thirteen-year-old Jared has attended this basketball camp three times in the past. The Rapid River student said he's 90 percent confident he'll be able to make the basketball team this fall. In fact, he can now dribble between his legs, and his left-hand layup shots have improved a lot.
But it wasn't all fun and games. Coach Steve Moreland also made sure to impart words of wisdom that made mom and dad especially happy; rules like taking pride in your work and time management.
“So I’ll be a better listener,” said Terry Brower. “I’ll be a better person. I’ll do stuff right and everything."
But the lessons extend to the pros as well.
“So we're not only giving good stuff to the kids,” Coach Steve Moreland added. “We're getting good stuff back; they’re impacting us in a lot of ways."
And how does it feel knowing that a few days can change a child's life?
“That is my passion in life,” Moreland explained. “Kind of my calling if you will. And I just love it. Every single day I come in here, I light up with a smile when I see these young kids working on their game."
The camp ended with a ceremony to recognize the most valuable player, the most improved player, and the player with the best attitude.
The Pistons Youth Basketball Camp heads to Negaunee and Marquette in July.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWLUC