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It’s More Than Just a Game
What’s unique about this team is not only their explosive entrance into the league, but their soft hearts for Denver’s at-risk kids. The Colorado Kings joined the ABA last year as the league’s first team in the state, defeating teams from the Southwest, Oklahoma, Wyoming and Japan and ending the season with a 24 and 1 record. Children under age 6 have always been allowed free entrance to all home games, and are the focus of the half-time entertainment. Last November, they collaborated with 9Cares Colorado Shares Food Drive for a record-breaking 200+ tons of food collected, and held several anti-bullying programs to help bully-proof Denver-area schools. They also held three weeks of youth basketball and leadership camps at Hillcrest Academy located in a neighborhood whose residents have limited access to summer activities for kids.
Their season ended in April, but they continued their philanthropy through the summer. The coaches and players facilitated much-needed after-school basketball clinics for children attending the new Beacon Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club of Metro Denver Centers at Noel Middle School and Place Bridge Academy. Additionally, they provided more than 200 free lunches to children through the summer, ending the program by providing 30 kids new backpacks, lunch boxes and school supplies to start their school year.
“These programs mean a lot to our coaches and players,” states Durrell Middleton, the team’s owner. “These Denver communities we serve are where most of the players and coaches grew up. They know first-hand what the needs are.”
They’ll continue their programs throughout their season which starts Oct. 8th. Visit the Colorado Kings website to view their community events schedule, or visit the Facebook page to see pictures from the after-school basketball clinics and lunch program.
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