NBA great Shaquille O’Neal is well-known for his charity contributions and being an all-around nice guy. Shaq challenges himself to do a good deed whenever he leaves home and gives families with few resources assistance that is life-changing. He has even stopped to assist motorists after an accident to ensure that everyone is safe. One of Shaq’s most recent projects was refurbishing a Boys & Girls Club Basketball Court.
While growing up in Newark, N.J., Shaq spent much time shooting hoops at the local Boys & Girls Club. When he grew (and grew and grew) up, he made it big in the NBA. He gives back to many communities throughout the nation daily.
The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation & Icy Hot® have a program called Comebaq Court. The initiative is working on refurbishing courts at various Boys & Girls Clubs around the country. The most recent court to receive the VIP treatment is Challengers Boys & Girls Club of Metro Los Angeles.
The program builds itself around inspiring new athletes and providing healthy spaces in communities with limited resources. The Comebaq Court program is a combination effort with the Lakers Youth Foundation. On the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation website, Shaq says:
“Restoring basketball courts and creating safe places for kids to play has always been important to me. I was a kid at the Boys & Girls Club once, and the community supported me beyond just sports. I’m thrilled to celebrate the opening of this Comebaq Court at Challengers Boys & Girls Club for our kids to enjoy, as we ensure the next generation has access to safe places like these to follow their dreams.”
The new court at Challengers sports a purple court with yellow markings to represent the contribution of the LA Lakers to the project. Dedication to the hometown team is strong among the youth who spend time on the court.
Shaq Credits The Staff at Boys & Girls Clubs
When Shaq talks about the impact that Boys & Girls Clubs had on him, he gives credit to the staff. He will continue his personal challenge to improve the availability of good recreational areas for kids nationwide. Shaq may surprise you in your neighborhood by playing a pick-up game in the street with the neighborhood kids. He is spontaneous and generous beyond measure.
If you enjoyed reading about Shaq’s Comebaq Court initiative, please share this. You can find donation information on the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation website if you would like to support this amazing cause.
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