Kingsbridge Heights Neighborhood Improvement Association, Inc
New York Sky Risers – K.H.N.I.A
For over 35 years I have been playing basketball at west 4th street in the heart of the village here in New York City. The west 4th street basketball court, otherwise known as the cage, is made famous for it's hard play and the numerous players who had made into the NBA or had become legendry street ball players. Larry Johnson, Lloyd Daniels, Smush Parker and Dr. Jay are just a few to have made into the NBA.
The NBA is not the only venue players are seeking these days. Some play oversea. For a young and upcoming player the hope of playing in collage and snatching up a scholarship to make it affordable is their goal. Bringing hope to these young players is what I hope to achieve with this program.
In 2014 I was approached to help put together a high school basketball team. I decided then I didn’t want to coach, and while I didn’t coach I did help put the Kingsbridge High team together to play in the west 4th street basketball tournament. At the end of the season two of the players had earned scholarships to college. While I cannot guaranty scholarships, I can say that college scouts are known to frequent the cage.
In 2015 I decided that I would not only put a team together, but I would coach it as well. In coming up with a name it was important for me to make it about more than basketball. One sponsor, Kingsbridge Heights Neighborhood Improvement Association, Inc (KHNIA) is known for saving buildings, preventing homelessness and raising faith in communities throughout New York area.
I wanted to lift the mind body and soul of young people. So, the name Sky Risers was born. It is my hope that the name itself will make them understand that no matter what they do sky is the limit.
I’m Coach Vince
Kingsbridge Heights Neighborhood Improvement Association (K.H.N.I.A), is a 501c3, not for profit Bronx based organization committed to stabilizing and improving neighborhoods and the lives of its residents.
New York Sky Risers is a basketball team of young inner city teenagers committed to rising above their adversities and agree to help lift the lives of others. It is the belief that through positive thinking and perseverance one can achieve great things. By lifting the mind,
body and soul of these young people, they can emerge to be leaders in their
communities with the understanding that Sky’s the limit.
K.H.N.I.A. has teamed up with New York Sky Risers to raise revenue
for their summer basketball program. No contribution is too small and all of
your support is greatly appreciated.