If you want to see something amazing, just show up at the Essex Edge on a Saturday afternoon to watch the Star Basketball program. There you will see about 30 children, ages 4-21, with all types of disabilities, playing basketball with over 30 high school mentors assisting the children. In the stands, the parents, grandparents, and friends of these children cheer them on. Chris and Leslie Capano check the children in and graciously started this program 4 years ago. And Mike Feitelberg, who manages the Edge, helps sponsor the program.
You will hear clapping, cheering, and positive comments coming from all 3 courts. You will see mentors and kids giving each other high fives when they make a basket. You won’t see parents yelling at the coaches, telling their kids how to play ball, or telling their child what they did wrong. It is all about perspective when you have a child who has special needs. It doesn’t matter if your kid can’t dribble, can’t make a shot, or understand how to play a game. What matters is that your child is engaged in an activity that they can play at their level and have fun.
So if you ever want to brighten your day, just stop by the Edge and watch these amazing children play basketball. It is the most incredible experience you will encounter. And you will leave the gym with a very different perspective.