2007 Darrick Martin Basketball & Books Youth Camp

Thanks to Marc Viens for reporting on the 2007 Camp

Darrick Martin (SAHS class of ’88), 130 young basketball enthusiasts, a great staff of volunteers… what more could you ask? The enthusiasm in SA’s historic Jack Errion Memorial Gymnasium this week was tantamount to that of “March Madness”. But, wait… is this only the heat of mid-August?

Darrick Martin of the Tornto Raptors

Darrick currently plays for the Toronto Raptors and hosted the Darrick Martin Basketball & Books Youth Camp - a free week long program at St Anthony College Preparatory High School for all youth ages 7 to 17

Darrick Martin, who went on to UCLA following a brilliant high school career, held his annual “Youth Basketball and Books Day Camp” at his alma mater August 13-17, 2007. Darrick, a 12 year veteran of the NBA, is currently a member of the Toronto Raptors.

The camp, which was free for all participants, was designed for area boys and girls from the ages of 7 through 17. Its focus, in addition to basketball, included skills that nourish the body, mind and spirit in a variety of areas, such as nutrition, hygiene, goal setting, study skills and leadership development. All participants were treated to free lunch each day, along with a free camp T-shirt and backpack filled with school supplies.

I had a chance to grab Darrick for a few moments following some “grueling one on one” games with the campers. Darrick said his motivation for the camp is, “To give back to the kids.”. His father told him, “When you have the ability and a platform to help then do it, kids are our future.” Darrick didn’t have anything like this when he was growing up and wants to instill in kids today that basketball is only a part of all that makes up life.

When asked what it was like for him to be back here at his alma mater, his comment was a quick one word, “Chills!” He quickly alluded to the friends he made here and of course his playing days against big rivals Andre Miller and Darrick Martin like St. Monica, Verbum Dei, and Serra in our always sold out home venue. Of course he recalled two huge CIF games against Edison at home and Mater Dei before a sold out very partisan SA crowd at LBCC.

Darrick feels the program’s success can be measured by the sparkle in the eyes of the kids, as well as their development through the week of activities. Normal for kids of this age is apprehension, but that quickly dissipated with the variety of activities, learning opportunities and camaraderie that quickly developed. He sees a bright future for the program and intends to increase the opportunity for up to 200 youth next year. I noticed all his volunteers were actively engaged in the activities and a tremendous gift through their talents and enthusiasm throughout the week.

The closing ceremonies were dominated with emphasis on the skills of life and a deep sense of appreciation. Awards of appreciation were handed out to all who had a role in contributing to the success of event. And photos will show that the desire to have Darrick autograph their camp photos was overwhelming. The spirit of this event soared throughout and in no small way to the credit of the many volunteers, coaches and staff, and of course Darrick, his family and remarkable parents, Pam and Jesse.

Darrick wanted to express to all SA folks his hope that they will, “Take the time to get involved, volunteer with SA activities and remember that reaching even one child makes a difference.”.Darrick’s patented smile was all over his face throughout the event… you can see in his eyes how much taking the time to nurture youth means to him. We are so proud of Darrick Martin, and appreciate his positive impact on so many in such immeasurable ways.

Photographs courtesy of Marc Viens

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