It’s time for the 18th annual Unity Games on Staten Island! The event returns to the borough on Saturday and Sunday, March 18 and 19, and will feature a free weekend of activities for teens and tweens, including basketball, workshops, meals and more.
The event will take place at Susan E. Wagner High School, 1200 Manor Rd. The goal of the games is to bring together diverse children from across the borough to learn more about one another all while having a great time.
According to the event’s website, the games “combine basketball and educational workshops to foster relationships among young people of different backgrounds through a shared experience.”
Mark F. Sherman, MD, co-founder, explains on the website, “The Unity Games were inspired in 2003 following a series of racial incidents in various sports leagues across the country. After many years of my close associations with young athletes, I realized that more and more there is little contact between athletes of different backgrounds.
Sherman adds, “My dear friend Jacob Carey and I have spent years involved with basketball and young athletes. We both had a similar dream. The Unity Games is our attempt to try to make our communities interact in a gainful endeavor.”
The event is open to all sixth, seventh and eighth grade boys and girls who enjoy basketball. Registration is now open, and the deadline to register is March 4. Team selection day, which is mandatory, is the same day, 9am-12pm, at the Staten Island JCC, located at 1466 Manor Rd., Staten Island.
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What to Expect at the Unity Games on Staten Island
Here’s what kids will enjoy throughout the fun-packed weekend:
- Basketball games, clinics and contests
- Cultural enrichment and educational workshops
- Celebrity guest speakers, a game room, DJ and arts and crafts
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks and refreshments
Organizers also provide team uniforms (shirts, shorts and socks).
What You Need to Know About Attending the Unity Games on Staten Island
Where are the games held?
The games will be held at Susan E. Wagner High School, 1200 Manor Rd., Staten Island.
When are the Unity Games?
The games are Saturday and Sunday, March 18 and 19, 8:30am-6pm. Participants must attend both days.
Who can participate?
Boys and girls in sixth, seventh and eighth grade.
How much does it cost to participate?
The event is free for all participants.
What is the deadline for registering?
Registration is open until March 4. Team selection day is March 4, 9am-12pm, and attendance is required for kids who registered and want to participate in the games.
Is transportation available?
Free bus transportation is available.
For more information, including how to register, donate and more, visit theunitygames.com or follow the event on Facebook or Instagram.
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