Jan. 8, 2008

Aston, Pa. -- The Neumann College men's basketball team set a goal this year to play hard, play smart, and play with class. On January 7th the team demonstrated this by being positive role models and helping to instill knowledge and encouragement to fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth graders involved with the Drexel Neumann Academy's J.V. and varsity basketball program in Chester, Pennsylvania.

The Knights' coaches and players put on the clinic in conjunction with the Drexel Neumann Academy and The Center for Sport, Spirituality & Character Development at Neumann College.

"This was something that we really wanted to do for the students at Drexel Neumann Academy. We have all been influence by someone in our lifetime and it was a great opportunity for our staff and our players to be that person to someone else, stated Head Coach Mike Gallagher. "It was great to see the smiling faces on the kids and we all had a lot of fun."

Members of Drexel Neumann Academy's J.V. and varsity men's basketball team ran drills and learned some new skills from the Neumann players. They were also given some one-on-one training by members of the team. 

Team captain and Chester Pennsylvania native Derahn Patrick commented about the event stating, "Helping one another is only the beginning, the more you help the more you will get in return. This was a great experience for all of us; we had a great time and hopefully made a lasting impact on the students."

The Drexel Neumann Academy opened its doors in September 2007 to students currently enrolled at Saint Katharine Drexel Parish School which was originally schedule to close.  However, a joint venture between Neumann College, the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, Saint Katharine Drexel Parish, and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia allowed Saint Katharine Drexel Parish Grade School to transition into Drexel Neumann Academy.