Stormin’ Norman Reunion Classic basketball tournament tips off this weekend
WILMINGTON – An effort that started as a way to get young people off the streets of Southbridge will serve as a reminder of its success in changing lives nearly 40 years later.
The Stormin’ Norman Reunion Classic 2019 Basketball Tournament will reunite the players and coaches from the Wilmington youth league that ran from 1980 through 2001, this Saturday at the newly-constructed 76ers Fieldhouse.
“We just came up with an idea to get some of the guys off the streets of Southbridge,” said Norman Oliver, founder of the league and organizer of the tournament that bears his nickname. “We started with 54 guys who participated in a league that ended up growing into something nationally.”
The Stormin’ Norman Classic donated tickets to Councilwoman Zanthia Oliver to be distributed to youth throughout the city.
“This is an opportunity for the community to get engaged with the new facility and to let them know that it’s for everyone,” said Councilwoman Oliver, who represents the 3rd District.
Included in the number of tickets given out citywide, children who attend Stubbs Elementary, Eastside Charter and Edison Charter schools were invited as well as youth who visit the Kingswood Community Center and H. Flet
cher Brown Boys & Girls Club.
The Reunion Classic is scheduled from 1-6 pm and will be played as a four-team, bracket-style tournament where the winning teams will move on to play in the championship game.
Tickets are $10 with the proceeds benefitting the Boys & Girls Club City League, which will also be held at the 76ers Fieldhouse.
The 76ers Fieldhouse is located at 401 Garasches Lane, Wilmington, DE 19801.
For more information and to purchase tickets in advance click here or visit www.76ersfieldhouse.com.
“This reunion has taken on a whole different arm – It’s becoming a family reunion,” said Oliver. “People are coming from throughout the country … come on back and be a part of something extraordinary.”
What
Stormin’ Norman Reunion Classis
When
Sat, March 2, 2019, from 1– 6 pm
Where
76ers Fieldhouse – 401 Garasches Lane, Wilmington, DE 19801