Under the leadership of Rotary President and Head Coach William Farrell, this program has become a staple in the community. What started as a small initiative with just 15 kids has blossomed into a thriving program with 128 participants, demonstrating the power of teamwork and dedication. The program, which runs from December through mid-March, focuses on teaching fundamental basketball skills in a structured yet fun environment.
“The whole idea of the program is it’s a learning process,” Coach William shared in an article by Mark Reynolds in the Times Community Newspapers. “We’re not throwing kids out there to play killer basketball and they have to win every game. It’s all about learning the techniques—dribbling, passing, shooting, and understanding movement.”
Coach William and his dedicated team, including fellow coach Thomas Meighan and high school assistant Logan D’Anci, ensure that each session provides a balance of skill-building and game play. The kids start with warm-up drills before splitting into teams for friendly, well-balanced games where every player gets a chance to develop and shine.
Parents have praised the program for its positive impact. Stacey Cramer, whose children participate, noted, “Coach Will is very easy-going, even with the teenagers, and gets them to listen to him. There’s no competition, no parents screaming—just kids having fun and learning the game.”
Rosalie Greak, another parent, emphasized how the program builds confidence and teamwork. “Coach Will really keeps good control of the kids. They respect him, and he makes it fun for everyone.”
The Southern Ulster Rotary Club’s basketball program is more than just a sports league—it’s a community effort that fosters growth, friendship, and sportsmanship. A huge thank you to Coach William, the Rotary Club, and all the volunteers who make this possible.
For more details on how to get involved, check out the full article by Mark Reynolds in the Times Community Newspapers or reach out to the Southern Ulster Rotary Club.
