The LAPD coached Watts Bears Team Tackles Life, School and Football in South L.A. NA13145bb

WHAT:
Watts Bears Football Team game

WHEN:
Saturday, August 31, 2013
9:30 a.m.

WHERE:
Narbonne High School
24300 Western Ave, Harbor City

WHO:
LAPD coached football team

WHY:
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Community Safety Partnership has partnered with the Housing Authority to field a team of boys from the Nickerson Gardens, Imperial Courts, and Jordan Downs Public Housing Developments. The Watts Bears football team is comprised of some of the best and talented young men, ranging from ages 7 to 9 years old.  The team was created in an effort to provide a safe and positive outlet for well deserving kids who may not have an opportunity to play football.  To be eligible to participate, the kids have to meet certain standards in school.

Coaching the team are LAPD officers Keith Mott, Cesar Rivera, Sergio Sanchez and Grant Goosby.  The officers use sports as a vehicle to introduce and reinforce the concept of strong character, positive values, personal responsibility and academic excellence. The coaches stress structure, discipline, team spirit, friendship, and positive competition.

The team played this past Saturday and lost 27-0. The kids played a good game and even though they lost they never gave up.  This year, the team has a tremendous amount of parent support.  Unlike past years, parents are volunteering as Team Manager, Team Moms, Team Dads and some are even helping the Officers with coaching.

CONTACT:
For more information, please contact Sergeant Emada Tingirides at (213) 842-3488.