Season Greetings from HoopKidz & HoopElite!

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

End Of Year Last Minute Notes: *We're in the last days of the HoopKidz/HoopElite Holiday Giveaway! Because you asked, we extended the deadline to Saturday, December 19th! Our 5th Annual GiveAway includes One(1) pair of new Nike Jordan AFJ 13's, One (1) pair of the Nike Zoom Kobe IV Basketball Shoes, Two(2) $50 Nike Gift Certificates. Just added three(3) pairs of the new Nike Jordan Enzyme Washed Jeans (Boys & Girls Versions) and Nike Fleece Hoodies. To qualify, register for any current or upcoming 2010 session and you're automatically entered to win. *New sessions in Silver Spring, Annapolis, and Rockville/Gaithersburg have been added to increase your chances. Good Luck! Winners announced on Dec. 20th! Register at hoopkidz.com

HoopKidz at Half-Time of Terps vs. W&M University happens Wednesday, December 30th at 7:30 PM. Any Parent who has committed or indicated that their child will play must contact us by Wednesday, December 16th!. Final roster and ticket counts must be made by then. All former and current HoopKidz, Boys or Girls, ages 8 to 14 (Max grade 8th) can participate. Register on-line or call us today at 1.888.HOOPKIZ...

In what was the quickest calendar year I can remember in a long time, it is our sincerest wish that you and yours have a wonderful Holiday Season. As we complete our 13th year, I can't help but reflect on all of the families that have been involved in our programs, Camps, and training. Without you, we wouldn't be to do what we most enjoy- to teach and pass along our Passion: Basketball. Thirteen years ago, we didn't envision that this would turn into a year-round endeavor. Nor did we know, we 'd still be having this much fun making Basketball fun for your children. Thank You for your support and all your Help this year... We're fortunate that our Partners and Vendors in HoopKidz/HoopElite have been very constant over the years. Many Thanks to Reggie & Jacqui at Citywide, Donna Hooper and whole staff at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium, Reggie Brooks, Kevin Young, and Clinton in New Town/Owings Mills, Montgomery County CUFP, Takoma Park Middle School, JDS Awards, ACC, Nike, Gatorade, the Washington Wizards (Washington Sports & Entertainment), 24 Hour Fitness and the John Hopkins National Summer Learning Center... A Special Heartfelt Thanks go to our year-round Staff, HoopKidz Directors Guy Nelson, Pam Kirkland, and Dale Lambreth. Thank You or your commitment, time, and passion for teaching. Not everyone can do, what you do and how you do it!... To our Summer and Specialty Camp lecturers, Bobby Kinzer, Dennis Kirkland, Mark Edwards, et all- Many Thanks! And to all of our College Players/Summer Camp Counselors, Thank You for helping us to give the Area's best Summer camp experience to scores of kids each year... Picture Above, HoopKidz Coach Guy Nelson with his group in Dec. '09

Hoopz Radio DMV debuted December 11th. We talked with noted HS Coach and Basketball Historian, Butch McAdams about his Top 50 All-Time Washington Area HS Basketball players. If you missed it, you can go to blogtalkradio.com/hoopzradiodmv to listen at any time. We're on again Fri., Dec. 18th ...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

With a heavy heart this blog, our Prayers and Thoughts turn to classmate Divead Weedon killed last week in a car accident in Laurel. Our condolences to his wife, Margaret C. Weedon and Daughter... My Prayers and Thoughts also turn to mentor and HS Counselor, Michael Lovings who's hospitalized and recovering from illness...Mrs. Ann Batten, Ms. Diana Gaither, Ms. Tyrena Spry, Wendy Reed Smith, Denise Reed, Genieve Cummings, Charlotte Robinson, Robert Robinson, Mr. Samuel Yette, and Mr. William Cole. Special remembrances of HoopKidz, Friendly HS, and Northwestern HS Coach, Gerald Moore, who passed away on December 11th, 2008... Happy Birthday to Atoya Reed, Jennifer Johnson, Percy Mitchell, and HoopKidz Back Office Director, Pamela Dickerson Carter... Final Word- "You can't hang around bathing your body in the reflection of a trophy" -Bill Cosby

HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701 for Washington/Baltimore Area Director & Programs... http://www.hoopkidz.com/ E-mail us at info@hoopkidz.com HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

* Now you follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/HoopKidz and Find us on Facebook facebook.com/HoopKidzHoopElite Basketball *

Holiday Hoopz 2009! /Annapolis & Comcast!

Don't do more than you can do, but don't do less either- Jeff Fletcher

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

Happy Holidays! It's our hope that this season finds you and your families healthly and well. Many Thanks to you all who've helped our program thru this our thirteenth year! It's hard to believe that this year has gone by so quickly. We're into the start of Basketball season and it's great to see how many of our HoopKidz, HoopElite trainees, Coaches, and Camp Counselors are doing so far... This year's (our 5th!) HoopKidz/HoopElite Holiday GiveAway includes one (1) pair of Nike Jordan AFJ 13, one (1) pair of the Nike Zoom Kobe IV Basketball Shoe and two(2) $50 Nike Gift cards. Want a chance to win before Christmas? Just register for any HoopKidz or HoopElite session before December 15th, 2009 and be automatically entered. Registering more than once or multiple kids? You'll be entered as many times as you register and increase your chances to win. Register today to take advantage!

We're proud to announce our new affiliation with 24 Hour Fitness, Annapolis, MD as our newest location in the Metropolitan Washington Area. 24 Hour Fitness, the largest Health Club operation in the world is located in the new Annapolis Town Center. Initial HoopKidz Instructional Basketball sessions will be offered on Thursdays beginning December 3rd and Saturday, December 5th. Programs, Camps, & Training will be available year at this great new location. Discount memberships for Parents and friends of registrants are available. Go to the website for more details, www.hoopkidz.com...

Don't Forget!- HoopKidz will playing this month at Comcast Center at Half-Time of the Men's University Of Maryland vs. William & Mary game, Wednesday, December 30th, 2009. Game time is 7:30 PM. Remember, for this game there is limited Roster availabilty to participate. On a first come, first on basis, all current and former HoopKidz, Boys & Girls, Ages 8 to 14 can participate (NCAA regulations stipulate no player can be out of the eighth grade). For each child participating, three(3) tickets and a Jersey must be purchased. The three(3) ticket minimum is $51 (a discount $17 per ticket plus a $5 Jersey cost) Additional tickets for Family and Friends are available for a discount rate of $18 per ticket. There are still some slots available for Kids to play and tickets available. Player and ticket requests/commitments should be made as soon as possible. Deadline for payment is December 10th! Register on-line today! Come out and support our HoopKidz in their first appearance at Comcast this Holiday!

December '09 marks the debut of Hoopz Radio DMV, our new Radio show via the web. We'll talk to the area's Washington area's Best Basketball Coaches and Minds about Youth and HS Basketball season, Current B-Ball News, and everything that's good about Youth Sports. You'll be able to call in to offer your opinions and get your questions answered. Hoopz Radio DMV will be available live and podcast to listen to at your convenience. Great info and lots of Fun! Our 1st show broadcast the week of December 7th! You'll find us at -www.blogtalkradio.com/HoopzRadioDMV

HoopKidz Instructional Saturday sessions for Owings Mills/Baltimore now set to begin Saturday, December 5th at New Town HS, Owings Mills at 9:00 AM and runs thru January 16th, 2010. Up Top Left, Feature Photo, Coach Guy Nelson with Fall session HoopKidz in Bowie. Top Right, some of our youngest HoopKidz posing at a session in Bowie...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our thoughts and prayers this blog, Mrs. Ann Batten, Mother of HoopKidz Coach Bob Batten, Ms. Diana Gaither, Ms. Tyrena Spry, Wendy Reed Smith, Denise Reed, Charlotte Robinson, Robert Robinson, Genieve Cummings, Sam Yette, and William Cole... Happy Birthday Shout-Outs to Morgan Johnson, Mary McNair, Tatianna Garvin, Kailyn Nelson and Daughter, Zoe Dickerson(Love U!)... For all our HoopElite trainees who called to talk about your Season's rough start, Coaches, playing time, etc.- Keep your heads up, stay focused and don't skip any classes!...

Final Thoughts- Purpose & Focus 'The dog has four feet, but he does not walk them in four roads'... Haitian proverb

HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466.7549), ext. 701 for Washington/Baltimore area Director & Programs... www.hoopkidz.com E-Mail us at info@hoopkidz.com... HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

*Now you can Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/HoopKidz and Find us on Facebook- facebook.com/HoopKidzHoopElite *

Important Schedule Change/ HoopKidz@ Comcast UMD!

"It's not the hours you put in, it's what you put in the hours"- Unknown

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

Important Schedule Changes- *Without advance notice , Our 2nd Fall HoopKidz Instructional Basketball in our Bowie location scheduled to begin Thursday, November 5th was changed to begin on Wednesday, November 4th and run six weeks. We're aware this may cause some scheduling problems on such short notice. Our Apologies, we were just notified. Please call us if you are unable to attend this session on Wednesdays instead of Thursdays @ 1.888.HOOPKIZ(466.7549), ext. 701. Again our apologies*...

New Important Information & Updates- We'll announce our new Annapolis location for HoopKidz & HoopElite Basketball programs this week. Check the website for times & dates beginning November 3rd!...

HoopKidz will be playing in this December at Comcast Center at Half-time of a University Of Maryland Men's Basketball Game! In the past our kids have played at the Naval Academy each December. This year we'll be in the Big Arena on MD's Campus this Holiday season! * Details-Our Kids will play at Half-time of the Men's MD vs. William & Mary on Wednesday, December 30th, 2009. Game time is 7:30 PM For this game, there is limited availabilty for our kids to participate. The Roster for the game will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. Boys & Girls, Ages 8 to 14 (No player can be older than 8th grade) For each child participating, three(3) tickets and Jersey must be purchased. The three(3) ticket minimum is $51 ($17 per for Player family minimum) and Jersey cost is $5. Additional tickets for Family and Friends are available for a discount rate of $18 per ticket. Player and ticket commitments should as soon possible(Limited number of Roster slots) and paid in advance. Deadline for payment is December 10th (No exceptions). Put this game on your Calendar and Reserve your space today!...

This month, HoopKidz & HoopElite comes to Radio via the web. That's Right, we're launching a weekly Radio show featuring some of area's best Basketball Coaches and minds talking Youth & HS Basketball, Coaching, and everything that's good about Youth Sports. You'll be able to call in to offer your opinions and get your questions answered. Shows will be podcast and available real-time. Great info and lots of Fun! Show begins broadcasting Monday, November 23rd!...

HoopKidz Instructional Saturday sessions for Owings Mills/Baltimore begins on November 14th at New Town High School, Owings Mills at 9:30 AM and runs thru December 19th... The HoopKidz Instructional Monday session in Silver Spring/Montgomery County has been moved to start on November 9th at 6:15 PM and will run thru December 21st...

Our HoopKidz & HoopElite Fall Pre-Season Basketball Workouts are underway and it's not too late to register take advantage of the opportunity to get ready for a great Basketball season! Boys & Girls, ages 8 thru HS Seniors can now get ready for the '09/'10 B-ball season with our series of individual & small group intensive workouts designed to prepare players through Basketball Skill development work, conditioning, and plyrometric training. Each session is 1.5 hrs is offered in Bowie and Annapolis (beginning Nov. 16th). Times and sessions are flexible between 4 PM -7:30 PM on Mondays/Wednesdays, Tuesdays/Fridays, and Saturdays. The special pricing is still in effect- Just $125 for six sessions(Regular pricing $180) thru November 2nd!(Offer only good with pre-payment) Go to the website to register and call us to set up your workout schedule. Get ready for the competition this season!

Are you registered for any of the upcoming sessions in Bowie, Silver Spring, Baltimore/Owings Mills and Annapolis? Take advantage today. Spaces are still available... www.hoopkidz.com

The HoopElite Fall Boys HS Showcase on October 9th, 2009 featured some of the Top HS Soph., Jrs. & Srs in our area. Here's a list of the Outstanding players who participated: Parrish Pernell, Jr.(Springbrook HS), Avery Perry, Sr. (Hammond HS, Columbia), Demetric Austin, Soph.(Springbrook HS), Jarid Watson, Jr.(Springbrook HS), David Naves, Sr. (DeMatha HS), Gary Gates, Jr.(Springbrook HS), Kendrick Anderson, Jr.(Baltimore City College HS), Darlen Foster, Sr. (Catonsville HS), Eric T. Greer, Jr. (Baltimore City College HS), Michael Mack, Soph.(Dunbar HS-B'more), Maurice Mason, Sr.(Westlake HS, Waldorf), Julian Singletary, Sr.(Frisco HS, Dallas TX), Christopher Roby, Sr. (Southlake HS, Edgewater, MD), Kevin Scroggins, Soph.(Douglas HS Baltimore), Avy Smith, Sr. (DeMatha), Thomas Thornton, Soph.(Mt. Carmel HS Baltimore), Arin Wade, Sr.(South River HS, Edgewater) and Denzell Walker, Jr. (McDonogh HS, Baltimore)... We're looking forward to great seasons from all the participants and will keep you updated on their progress this year... HoopKidz Feature Photo, our current Saturday Fall League HoopKidz posing for the camera...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers this blog, Denise Reed, Family and Friends of Roland White, Richmond, VA, Family and teammates of Hampton University Basketball player, Theo Smalling, the passing of Mr. Howard Boone, Father of Classmate, Kenneth Boone, Ms. Tyrena Spry, Ms. Diana Gaither, Sam Yette, Mr. Cole, Wendy Reed Smith, Robert & Charlotte Robinson, Mrs. Batten(Bob Batten), the family of Troy Gaither on the loss of his Mom and the Memory of Ms. Hattie James, October 27th, 2005 ... Also, Remembering former player Jabari Ottz (Good Counsel, Howard, James Madison) lost to a Fatal Car accident this past weekend...

HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie,MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466.7549), ext. 701 for Washington/Baltimore area Director & Programs...www.hoopkidz.com E-mail us at info@hoopkidz.com... HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

Final Thoughts- "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success"- Henry Ford

Fall Into B-Ball Season!/ Pre-Season Prep

'The only important shot you take is the next one. Because no matter how hard you try, that is the only one you can still have an effect on!' - Jason Bumblis

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

Important Schedule Change- The HoopKidz Instructional Basketball Fall sessions for Silver Spring(Takoma Park Middle School) will now begin on Monday, October 26th, 2009 at 6 PM and run for six weeks... Baltimore/Owings Mills 1st Fall session@ New Town HS begins Saturday, October 31st at 9 AM...

Congratulations and Special Thanks to all of our HS players who participated in the HoopElite Fall Showcase on October 9th. 25 Top Boys HS'ers from DC/MD/VA competed in front of visiting College Coaches...

Need to get your Daughters and Sons ready for the upcoming season? HoopKidz & HoopElite presents our Fall Pre-season Basketball Workouts beginning October 19th. Both Boys & Girls, ages 8 thru HS Srs. can now get ready for the 09/10 Basketball season with a series of individual and small group intense workouts designed to players through Basketball Skill development work, conditioning, and Plyometric training. Each session is 1.5 hrs and offered in Bowie and our new Annapolis area location. This is the first time this specialized training has been offered outside of our Select Top HS and College players program. This is a great re-introduction to Basketball training & conditioning for young players involved in Soccer, Football, and Lacrosse this fall. Six workout sessions offered on Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Friday. Flexible time bookings from 4 to 7 PM. Special limited cost is still in effect- $125.00 (regular price $180.00) Offer only good with pre-payment*... Fall sessions upcoming in Bowie, Baltimore/Owings Mills, & Silver Spring are still available. Have you registered yet?...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers this week, the family of Melvin Simon, the family and friends of Roland White, Ms. Tyrena Spry, Ms. Diana Gaither, Wendy R. Smith, Sam Yette, Mr. Cole, the memory Of Wayne Reed and Anisa Dade, Charlotte & Robert Robinson... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ (466-7549), ext 701 for Washington/B'more area. Ext. 702 for HoopKidz Tidewater VA... www.hoopkidz.com E-Mail us at info@hoopkidz.com... HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

Fall Hoopz Offers!/Pre-Season B-Ball Workouts

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

We've had some recent Important Schedule Changes; Here's a rundown- Our 1st Fall HoopKidz Instructional session in Bowie on Thursdays will now begin on Thursday, September 24th, 2009 at 4:45 PM and run six weeks thru October 29th. The HoopKidz Saturday Instructional Basketball League now begins on Saturday, September 26th at 9 AM and runs thru November 7th. Our Saturday sessions at VA's Ware Academy in Glouster will now begin on Saturday, October 3rd at 9AM and run for five weeks thru October 31st. Thanks for all of your patience with these schedule changes... Registration is still available for all of these sessions at hoopkidz.com... Our Special Offer for all HoopKidz/HoopElite Fall session registrants affected the schedule changes- You're entered automatically into the our drawing for Five $50 Nike Gift Certificates! Not registered yet, it's not too late. You still have have until September 28th, 2009. Winners will be announced and notified on Tuesday, September 29th, 2009!

HoopKidz & HoopElite presents Fall Pre-Season Basketball Workouts beginning October 19th. Both Boys & Girls, ages 8 thru HS Srs can now get ready for the 2009/10 Basketball season with a series of individual and small group intense workouts designed to prepare players through Basketball Skill development work, conditioning, and Plyrometric training. Each session is 1 1/2 hours and will be offered in Bowie and our new Annapolis location. This specialized training has only been offered to our top HS and our College players in the past. Six workout sessions will be offered on Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Friday. Our 1st time special limited cost is just $125.00 (regular price- $180) This offer/pricing will only last until September 28th!(Offer only good with pre-payment!) Go to the website to register today!

The HoopElite Fall Open Showcase for HS Boys (Sophmores, Jrs. & Srs) takes place Friday, October 9th at 4 PM. This is our Fall Select Player event to be attended by Coaches from College, Universities, Jr. Colleges and Post Grad/Prep Schools. This is a great opportunity for our HS players to display their skills for potential scholarship opportunites. A College and NCAA information is included for all players. For more information on this limited, select event, go to the website, e-mail or call us...

The HoopKidz Free Washington Wizard Ticket program is coming to the end. Remember, if your child participated in any HoopKidz/HoopElite Camp this past Summer, you're eligible. To register/claim yor ticket, go to www.verizoncenter.com/wizards/summerfun. Enter password: HOOPKIDZ Family and Friends may order any additional tickets for just $20! Great game tickets are still available if you act quickly! Call Josh Shiffman at 202.628.3200, ext.3852 or e-mail him at jshiffman@washsports.com

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers this blog, The Family and Friends of Classmate and Great Friend, Roland White of Richmond, VA. His Spirit and friendship will always remembered by all who crossed his path...Ms. Tyrena Spry, Ms. Diana Gaither, Sam Yette, Mr. Cole, Wendy Reed Smith, Robert & Charlotte Robinson, the memory of Ursula Benjamin... Happy Birthday! Aunt Charlotte... Apologies To my Bowie State University Career Development staff, we will make up the dates in a big way!...Thanks to all of our Parents and HK/HE trainees for your patience with all of our schedule changes. With our growth, we've had to be flexible. Thanks again for all your help and support... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466.7549), ext. 701 for Washington/Baltimore area Director & programs. Use ext. 702 to reach Coach Charles 'Chaz' Johnson for HoopKidz Tidewater Virginia (Gloucester/Newport News/Hampton) www.hoopkidz.com E-Mail us at info@hoopkidz.com HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

End Of Summer HoopKidz/HoopElite!

*Note: Important Schedule Changes- Our 1st Fall HoopKidz Instructional session in Bowie set to start Thursday, September 17th will now begin on Thursday, September 24th, 2009 at 4:45 PM. This session will extend to October 29th running six weeks of Thursdays. Also, our HoopKidz Saturday League scheduled to begin on September 19th will now begin on Saturday, September 26th, 2009. Gloucester, VA's Ware Academy Session set to begin on Saturday, September 19th will now begin on Saturday, October 3rd at 9AM and run for five weeks thru October 31st. Thanks for your patience with the rescheduling.*



"Basketball is like Photography, if you don't focus, all you have is the negative"... Dan Frisby


HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

Most of our kids are back in school and the days are slowly becoming shorter. Our last big Summer weekend is coming up. And our Fall Instructional HoopKidz and our Saturday Instructional League begin in just a few weeks. HoopKidz Instructional Basketball begins our 1st Fall session on Thursday, September 10th and our Fall Instructional League begins on Saturday, September 19th. Registration is available now at the website, ( click here)... We're looking forward to the Gloucester, VA HoopKidz sessions beginning on Saturday, September 19th! Under the direction of Coach Chaz Johnson, these sessions will be held at Ware Academy in Gloucester...Special Thanks Again to all of HoopKidz & HoopElite families who participated in this Summer's Camps, Specialty Camps, and Workouts. Because of your involvement we had another great group of Summer events. This was our 9th Summer season and every year has gotten better because of the quality of your participation... The 2nd HoopElite Shooting Camp was changed and moved to Saturday, September 12th at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium. There is still space available... Our HoopElite Fall Open Showcase for High School Boys (Soph., Jrs. & Srs.) takes place Friday, October 9th, 2009. This is a Select Player event to be attended by coaches from Collegea, Universities, Junior Colleges and Post-Grad/Prep Schools. Last Spring's Showcase placed 14 of the 40 select players in Colleges & Universities. Call us or e-mail for more information on this limited event... The HoopKidz Free Wizard Ticket program for the 09/10 Basketball season is still in effect! If your child participated in any HoopKidz/HoopElite Camp this Summer, you're eligible! To register/claim your ticket, go to www.verizoncenter.com/wizards/summerfun Enter password: HOOPKIDZ Your family and friends may order addtional tickets for just $20. Great game tickets are still available! Need more information, call our Wizards guy, Josh Shiffman at 202.628.3200, ext. 3852 or e-mail him at jshiffman@washsports.com ... Feature Photo, Outstanding Player for Summer Camp II, Garrett Kirkland poses with his award...



HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers this blog, Tyrena Spry, Sam Yette, Mr. Cole, Wendy Reed Smith, Kayla, Charlotte & Robert Robinson, & Ms. Diana Gaither... We wish the Best to all of Camp participants and HoopElite trainees this School year. Put your best effort forward in the classroom and on the court... Silver Spring(Takoma Park) dates for HoopKidz Fall are now available on the Website. Session begin Monday, October 12th at Takoma Park Middle School...


HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466.7549), ext 701 for a Washington/Baltimore Area Director. To reach Charles 'Chaz' Johnson for HoopKidz Tidewater Virginia(Gloucester/Newport News), use ext. 702. www.hoopkidz.com E-mail us at info@hoopkidz.com HoopKidz/HoopElite use Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

HoopKidz Back-To-School!/Extended Deadline

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

Can't believe Back to School time is here! We wish the best to all of the kids and their Families that participated in our Camps and Clinics this Summer... The Deadline for Early Registration Discounts has been extended until Wednesday, August 19th for all Fall HoopKidz/HoopElite 09/10 sessions. Check the schedule & Hurry to register if you haven't done so at the website, www.hoopkidz.com... Time is running out to redeem your free ticket for one of three Washington Wizards Home games this upcoming season for every participant of any HoopKidz/HoopElite Camp this Summer. Take advantage of this great offer before it's too late! For tickets, go to www.verizoncenter.com/wizards/summerfun. Enter password, HOOPKIDZ. Or just call our guy, Josh Shiffman at 202.628.3200, ext. 3852. E-Mail Josh at jshiffman@washsports.com for more details... Up next the HoopElite Shooting Camp, August 29th, September HoopKidz Instructional session begins September 10th, and the HoopKidz Fall Instructional League begins Saturday, September 19th... Up top, Photos from HoopKidz Camp sightings- Top Left, Some partipants in our HoopElite Post/Play Guard Camp, Lower Left, Director Pam Kirkland instructs team during break in the action. Top Right, Director Dale Lamberth gives Coaching Strategy to Counselors Nate Flowers (OK City Baptist) and James Wright(Frostburg Univ.) Bottom Right, Camper Derrick Hinton with the ball and Center, Camper Anna Wichman show off awards for Outstanding Play...

HoopKidz News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers this blog, Ms. Tyrena Spry, Sam Yette, Mr. Cole, Aunt Charlotte & Robert Robinson, Wendy Smith, and Ms. Diana Gaither. Happy Birthday is in order for Eric Tennille, Justin Ellis, & Ron Hayden!... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549) www.hoopkidz.com E-mail us at info@hoopkidz.com HoopKidz/HoopElite use Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

Basketball Dayz Of August!

HoopKidz Family-

This Summer has sped by! And we've had a great Summer of Camps and Specialty Basketball Camps. Last week's HoopKidz Summer Basketball 2nd session at the Bowie Gymnasium was full of a wonderful group of kids intent to improve their skills and have fun. Lots of people and partners to Thank for a special week including the City Of Bowie Gymnasium Staff, Nike, Citywide Promotions(Reginald Diggs), Panera Bread-Bowie Town Center, Pappa John's Pizza, Washington Wizards and JDS Awards. Many Thanks are due to our HoopKidz/HoopElite staff this Summer. Special recognition for the contributions of Directors Dale Lamberth, Pam Kirkland, Guy Nelson, Dennis Kirland, and Aaron Hutchinson... Photos-Up Top Left, 2nd session Ms. HoopKidz, Alexandra DeLeaver takes a break and Top Right, Group 1 Mr. HoopKidz, Josh Butler poses with his award.

Don' forget to redeem your free ticket to one of three Washington Wizards Home games this 2009/10 season. Every participant from any HoopKidz/HoopElite Camp this Summer. To get your ticket(s) and purchase additional tickets for family & friends, go to www.verizoncenter.com/wizards/summerfun . Enter password, HOOPKIDZ. Or you can call our HoopKidz contact, Josh Schiffman at (202) 628-3200, ext. 3852. E-mail Josh at jshiffman@washsports.com

Have you checked the 2009/10 HoopKidz and HoopElite Schedule of our Programs yet? Early Registration Discounts apply until August 15th. Two new locations will be added shortly. Don't miss out, Register today at www.hoopkidz.com... Up next the HoopElite Shooting Camp, August 29th and our September HoopKidz Instructional session in Bowie begins on Thursday, September 10th...

HoopKidz News-

In our thoughts and Prayers this blog, Ms. Tyrena Spry, Mother of HoopSelect player, Kennedy Birdwell, Medaris Banks & Family, Ms. Diana Gaither, Sam Yette, Mr. Cole, Father of Reginald & Dexter Cole, and Aunt Charlotte & Robert Robinson... Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Ron and Linda Payton... The HoopElite Open Fall Showcase for outstanding HS Sophmores, Juniors, Seniors for College, JUCO, Post Grad/Prep exposure happens on Friday, October 9th, 2009 at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium. Acceptance of Players for the Showcase must be approved by our staff in advance. A limited numbers of Players will participate. Call or e-mail us for details...

Special Recognition and Awards for our HoopKidz Summer Camp Session 2: Group 1- Outstanding Player Nicholas Deve, Jr. Mr. HoopKidz- Josh Butler Ms. HoopKidz- Anna Wichman Mr. Hardwork- Jahleel Jackson Outstanding Defensive Player- Nathan Demory Group 2- Outstanding Player- Stanley Richards Mr. HoopKidz- Christian Niles Mr. Hard Work- Dhane Blair Outstanding Player- Mason Moses Group 3- Outstanding Player- Lawerence Humes Mr. HoopKidz- Garrett Kirkland Ms. HoopKidz & Ms. Hardwork -Alexandra DeLeaver Mr. Hardwork- Jaron Hunt-Fletcher Outstanding Defensive Player- Benny Williams Group 4- Outstanding Player- Justin Carter Mr. HoopKidz- Jourdan Lamberth Ms. HoopKidz & Ms. Hardwork- Kiana Rushdan Mr. Hardwork- Ian Egan Outstanding Defensive Player- Darell Lamberth. Congratulations to all!

HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549) http://www.hoopkidz.com E-mail us at info@hoopkidz.com HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketball & Equipment exclusively...

Final Thoughts- If everyone is thinking alike then somebody isn't thinking...

July Hoopz & Camp Facts!

Schedule Change- The HoopElite All-Girls Skills Camp on Saturday, July 25th has been postponed. A new date will be announced shortly...

HoopKidz Family-

Is your kid coming to Camp next week? Here's what you'll need to know;

* Camp starts at 9AM Mon., July 27th, Before Care- as early as 7AM After Care- until 7 PM

* Kids should bring a Bag/Backpack with a towel, extra T-Shirt, Water/Drink Bottle

* There's a HoopKidz Snack Bar with Drinks, Gatorade, Water, Snacks for purchase. Most items

One dollar or less.

* Parents are welcome!

* HoopKidz Campers- Come Ready to Learn & Play Basketball! See you there...

The Washington Wizards are offering a free ticket to one of three Home games this 2009/10 Season to each participant in one of HoopKidz/HoopElite Camps this Summer. To get your ticket and purchase additional tickets for family & friends, go to www.verizoncenter.com/wizards/summerfun. Call our HoopKidz contact, Josh Schiffman at (202) 628-3200, ext. 3852 E-mail him at jshiffman@washsports.com

HoopKidz News-

Check out our new 2009/10 schedule of HoopKidz & HoopElite sessions at www.hoopkidz.com. Mark your calendars now and register early for the early discounts available for past/current participants. Sessions in Bowie and Owings Mills/Baltimore are in place, plus new locations in Silver Spring, Rockville/Gaithersburg, and Gloucester, VA (Tidewater area)... In our thoughts & Prayers this week: Ms. Diana Gaither, Aunt Charlotte & Robert Robinson, The Cummings Family(Pauline), Mr. Cole , Samuel Yette, remembrance's of friend & Coach Gerald Moore, Bruno Lee & Family, & Al Holloman... HoopElite Post Play/Guard Camp takes place Saturday, August 1st at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium... HoopElite Open Fall Showcase for outstanding HS Sophmores, Jrs., & Seniors for College, JUCO, Post Grad/Prep exposure happens on Friday, October 9th, 2009 at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium. E-Mail us (info@hoopkidz.com) for details... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549) www.hoopkidz.com E-Mail us at info@hoopkidz.com HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs & Equipment exclusively...

Final Thought- One Man with courage makes a majority. -Andrew Jackson

More Summer Hoopz! New Schedules...

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

The Summer's blazin' right along at what seems like warp speed!... A couple of notes- The HoopElite All-Girls Skills Camp scheduled for Saturday, July 25th at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium has been postponed. A new date will be announced shortly...The HoopElite Shooting Camp scheduled for Friday, July 17th at Takoma Park Middle School in Silver Spring has been moved. The new date is Saturday, August 29th from 9AM to 2 PM at the City of Bowie Gymnasium. Sorry for any inconvenience... The new Fall 2009 & 2010 HoopKidz and HoopElite session schedules go up on the website on July 20th! All of our sessions and Camps will be available for your planning schedules and early registration. Deep discounts for past and current HoopKidz/HoopElite attendees. New locations and sites will be available this Fall and in 2010!... Up next this Summer, The HoopElite Defensive Basketball Camp on July 18th(Bowie), our HoopElite All Girls Skills Camp on July 25th, the HoopKidz Summer Basketball Camp II session, July 27th thru 30th, and our HoopElite Post-Play & Guard Camp on August 1st. Are you registered yet? There's still time and spaces available! Go to http://www.hoopkidz.com/ to get on board... * Take a look -recognize anybody? Up Top , Photos from our 1st Summer Session on 6/25!

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers- College Classmate, Bruno Lee and his family with loss of son, Christopher (age 10)... The Cummings Family and extended family on the sudden loss of Pauline Cummings, Ms. Diana Gaither, Charlotte Robinson, Robert Robinson, Classmate Al Holloman (Ossning, NY) on the loss of his Dad and the extended James family on the loss of patriach Courtland James... Also in our Prayers, former pro Quarterback Steve McNair's family. I had an opportunity some years ago to meet and play with him in Pro-Am Golf tourney. Great guy, great experience... Don't forget to redeem your Washington Wizard tickets for the 2009/10 season for attending one our Summer or Specialty Camps this year. Add family & friends to the mix for just $20! Information is available at www.verizoncenter.com/wizards/summerfun or contact our friend, Josh Shiffman at jshiffman@washsports.com or at 202.628.3200 HoopElite Showcase for HS Rising Sophmores, Juniors, & Seniors will be announced next week. Showcase will attended by College, JUCO, and Prep School/Post Grad Coaches. More info soon... We keep getting compliments: Don't get us confused, we're the Original! This is our 13th year! Several new Camps are trying to duplicate what we do. We're okay with that because everything has it's place. 14 thousand kids later, we're instructioning and teaching Basketball because of you. Thank You for your continued support. * Note to Parents/Buyer Beware: the 'I Got Skillz' Girls program being run at the Bowie Gym has no affiliation or connection with HoopKidz/HoopElite even though they have decided to use our Copyrighted and Patented slogans and almost identical wording in their advertising material*... Congrats to daughter, Zoe Dickerson on making the 2009/10 Washington Redskins Jr. All Star Cheerleader & Dance Squad. Way to go, Zoe!...Final Thoughts; If there were just 4 more hours in each day.... HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs and Equipment exclusively... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701 for a Coach or Director

HoopzSummer Update!

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

Summer Basketball is in session at HoopKidz/HoopElite! Special Thanks to all of our first session HoopKidz Summer Basketball Camp session Campers and 1st HoopElite Shooting Camp participants. We had a great group of kids who came in for the those sessions and worked especially hard at improving their skills. Hats off to all of Camp Partners- the Bowie Gymnasium staff, Panera Bread, Papa Johns, Nike, JDS Awards & Trophies, the Washington Wizards and City Wide Promotions (Reggie Diggs)... Up next, our HoopElite Defensive Basketball Camp(7/18) , the 2nd session of our HoopElite Shooting Camp (7/17 in Silver Spring) and the HoopElite All-Girls Skills Camp (7/25).

The 2nd session of HoopKidz Summer Basketball Camp commences on July 27th. Not registered? There are still some spaces available. Register in a hurry to get one of the last remaining spaces for this great teaching Camp. Both Boys & Girls, ages 3 to 13 are exposed to one of the best basketball learning environments in the Washington Metropolitan area... Parents, don't forget to redeem your Free Wizards ticket for each of your kids who attends one of our camps this Summer. E-mail or call us for follow-up information... Up top a couple of pics from HoopKidz Summer Basketball Camp I... Top Left, Camper Alex Pagan picks up his Mr. HoopKidz award for his efforts last week. Top Right, Director Aaron Hutchinson and his team pose after a win and Bottom Left, some of our Outstanding Girl campers from the 1st session-Kiana Rusdan, Brianna & Tori Stanley, Jillian Walker, Jessika Norell, and Kaitlyn Parks...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Thoughts and Prayers this blog, Russ Minus (Bronx, NY), Ed Meyers, Ms. Diana Gaither, Charlotte & Robert Robinson, Mr. Cole, Samuel Yette, Yvonne & Justin Ellis, The Burnette Family, and the Family of Joyce DuBose... It doesn't seem possible that Michael Jackson has passed. Greatest single Entertainer of my lifetime- RIP... Congrats to Michael Adams, former pro and now new Head Coach at Archbishop Carroll, Washington, D.C... Rick Mahorn, Hampton Alum takes over Head Coach duties for WNBA Detroit franchise this Summer... Darryl Brooks, GWU Asst. takes over as Men's Head Coach at Bowie State... Ed(ward) Joyner takes over as men's Head Coach at Hampton University... Diane Richardson returns as Head Women's Coach at Riverdale Baptist after successful stints as Asst. at AU and U of MD... David Adkins, one of our favorite Camp lecturers leaves DeMatha to go to Asst. position at U of MD Womens. Congrats, Dave...We had a great 1st Camp last week. Some of our Oustanding efforts by Campers included Group 1; Nicholas Deve, Jr.-Outstanding Player Bruce Black- Mr. HoopKidz, Victoria Weaver-Ms. HoopKidz, Devin Harper-Mr. HardWork, Jaxon Monell- Best Defensive Player Group 2; Dennis Kirkland-Outstanding Player, Alex Garrido Pagan- Mr. HoopKidz, Kaitlyn Parks-Ms. HoopKidz, Dylan Muffley- Mr. HardWork, Best Defensive Player- Peter Snipes, Jr. Group 3- Jalen Niles-Outstanding Player, Aaron Lowe- Mr. HoopKidz, Danielle Powell-Ms. HoopKidz, Jacob Walker-Mr. HardWork, Tori Stanley-Ms. HardWork, Best Defensive Player- Marcus Foo Group 4- Jordan Lamberth-Outstanding Player, Ahmad Clark- Mr. HoopKidz, Kiana Rushdan-Ms. HoopKidz, Melvin Hudson-Mr. HardWork, Jala McClan-Ms. HardWork, and Justin Carter-Best Defensive Player. Congrats to you all!...Looking for advanced Basketball skill and /or enhanced athelic performance training (Speed, Agility, Conditioning, & Plyometric), contact us at info@hoopkidz.com or 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701 for details... Final Thought- Remind Yourself that Life Isn't your Enemy, But Your Thinking May Be.... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball uses Nike Basketballs and Equipment exclusively... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701 for a Coach or Director

Count Down to HoopKidz/HoopElite Summer Basketball!

Help Someone Else Succeed- Richard Parson, Ph.D

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

We're counting down to what promises to be a great Summer! Are you ready? We sure hope so because we've planned a full Summer slate of Basketball, learning and fun! Just days away from our 1st Summer offering, the first session of HoopKidz Summer Basketball Camp begins on June 22nd. If you haven't registered, there are just a few days and limited spaces available. HoopKidz Boys & Girls, Ages 3 to 13 will be on hand for our 9th and best Summer Basketball Camps yet! ... Why our Summer Camps are so important to us- Some of my best held memories are my Summer Basketball Camp experiences. Not only what I learned, but the friendships I developed, many of which continue today. The passion that I developed for Basketball then, I've extended to the HoopKidz and HoopElite Camps. Learning and teaching Basketball is the foundation of our program. It's are only ulterior motive... Every Camp attendee this summer receives a free ticket ($48 value) to a Washington Wizards game this coming Basketball season courtesy of the Washington Wizards. Additional tickets for Family and friends can be purchased for just $20.00 each. Another value added benefit for all of our HoopKidz/HoopElite families... The 1st HoopElite Shooting Camp will be held Saturday, June 27th at the City Of Bowie Gymnasium. Designed to improve the Shooting and Offensive Skills of both Boys & Girls, ages 7 to 17, the HE Shooting Camp is one of our most popular Summer Camp offerings. Teaching Directors include Dale Lambreth(Thomas Stone), Mark Edwards(DeMatha), David Adkins(DeMatha), Steve Turner(Gonzaga), and Brian Magid(Paint Branch)... The HoopElite Defensive Basketball Camp on Saturday, July 18th is offered to all players looking to develop their Defensive Basketball skills individually and learn team defensive Concepts... The HoopElite All-Girls Skills Camp(July 25th) is our one-day, intense Basketball experience for young ladies giving them an opportunity to work with some of the area's top Women Coaches including Ayanna Ball Ward(Largo), Hank Lloyd(Riverdale Baptist), and Michael Hines(Bowie)... Congrats to all of our HoopKidz & HoopElite graduates for the 2008-09 school year. It's always great to hear about our kid's academic success and accomplishments of the court...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our Prayers and Thoughts, Russell(Russ) Minus (Hampton University) of Bronx, NY, Coach Ed Meyers, Ms. Diana Gaither, Charlotte and Robert Robinson... Special Thanks to all of our new partners; Robert Gordon of AT&T Advertisng, Brett McCullough, TurnHere, Inc., Michael Mellor, Athletic Republic and Joshua Shiffman, Washington Wizards... Also Special Thanks to Jeanne Johnson and Jennifer Brady at the National Center for Summer Learning at John Hopkins for all their help and resources... The sincerest form of flattery- we've been getting calls from many of our Parents and hearing rumblings from our friends that other Basketball groups and Coaches have been 'selling' that they're 'just as good' as the HoopKidz /HoopElite program. We've noticed that many of them are attempting to copy and duplicate our programs. I'll continue to announce, we are not in competition with other basketball programs. We applaud them all for their work in helping young people become better players. If your program or organization is good, that doesn't have anything to do with HoopKidz/HoopElite. But, Thanks for the compliment anyway! It means we've been doing something that's made a difference for 13 years... In the Bowie Gym getting ready for the NBA Draft, Ty Lawson (UNC), Jeff Allen (VA Tech), and HoopKidz Summer Camp Counselor, Dwayne Anderson(Villanova)... Congrats to Quinn Cook(DeMatha, Bowie, MD) for being named to the USA 18 & Under National Team this summer...College and HS players training with HoopElite this Summer representing Lincoln University, Hampton University, Villanova, VCU, Clemson, DeMatha, Bowie, Thomas Stone, Westlake, E. Roosevelt, PGCC, Laurel, Paul VI, McNamara, VA Wesleyn, and Bowie State... Need advanced Basketball skill and/or enhanced athletic performance training(Speed, Agility, Conditioning, Plyometric), contact the Director by e-mail at info@hoopkidz.com or 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701 for details... Final Thought- Consider that Wisdom May Be Even More Important than IQ... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball uses Nike Basketballs and Equipment exclusively... HoopKidz/HoopElite Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701 for a Coach or Director...

HoopKidz/HoopElite & Wizards Summer Line-Ups!

The Best Time Of Day Is Now...

HoopKidz/HoopElite Family-

The '09 calendar has just been a whirlwind so far of Basketball, learning, and fun! We've finished up our HoopKidz Instructional sessions in Owings Mills(Baltimore) and Silver Spring for the school year with a great group of kids. And we've just completed our last week of a great Spring League in Bowie. Thanks to all of our new HoopKidz and long-standing families for your involvement in helping us continue to grow our Instructional programs... We held our first HoopElite Senior Open Showcase on 4/22 for some of the area's Best High School Seniors still uncommitted to Colleges for Basketball. 30 Top HS area Boys worked out and performed in front of College, Junior College, and Prep School Coaches (list in news below). Thanks to all who supported our effort to connect these young men with opportunites to continue their Educational careers with Basketball scholarships. Special Thanks to Staff, Bob Batten (BSU), Dale Lambreth(Thomas Stone), and Mark Edwards(DeMatha) for their contribution to the Showcase... Haven't registered for our Summer Basketball Camps yet? Well, you've still got a couple of days to take advantage of discount Camp pricing until the they return to our regular pricing. Remember, our Camps typically sell out early and we won't be adding additional sessions this Summer. Go to www.hoopkidz.com and register today to reserve your kid's place in one of our great Summer offerings!... The Washington Wizards and HoopKidz Summer Basketball Camps are getting together to offer a Free ticket to every kid who registers for any HoopKidz/HoopElite Summer Basketball Camp. The ticket valued at $48.00 is for a Wizards Home game (3 game choices!) in the 2009/10 season. Additional tickets for the family or friends can be purchased for just $20! This is great opportunity to experience NBA action next season for a great value. Register to take advantage of this offer today!... Our Summer Basketball Camps are drawing great interest and we're getting commitments for visits/teaching sessions from some top College Coaches and NBA players... See the article posted to the HoopKidz website on 5/4 about Summer Instructional Camps. Worth the read... Up top, our feature photos on Left include HoopKidz from our Silver Spring session- Chris Whitney, Jaelyn & Quianna Blanc, and Xavier Blackmon showing and top Right, Christopher Donalds finishing a Jumpshot in Bowie (Click on Pictures for larger view)...

HoopKidz/HoopElite News-

In our thoughts and Prayers this blog, Mrs. Tomicia Jones and family, Aunt Charlotte & Robert Robinson, Adia Stribling (Broken ankle), Ms. Diana Gaither, Brian Moody, Bobbette Bland, Sy Lerner and Brian Beard...Our HoopSelect MD team has begun practicing for our Spring/Summer season. Team Members include: Mason Moses, Derrick Hinton, Jacsen White, Garvan Vines, Eric & Melvyn Towns, Amari Jones, Kenneth & Cameron Edwards, Jonathan & Joshua Tabler,Kennedy Birdwell, Derrick Anthony Jr., Jayson Brown, Farama Bangura, and Mitchell Johnson... HoopElite Skill Training is in full swing this month. We've just added additional athletic training to include speed & agility skill work, plyometrics, vertical training in conjunction with Athletic Republic. Call or e-mail us for more details... The Roster for HoopElite Senior Open Showcase on 4/22 included Anthony Acty (Jericho), Brandon Baylor (Mt. Carmel), Brenden Bazilio (McNamara), Rashaad Brown (Flowers), Anthony Butler(Annapolis), Kevin Butler(Parkdale), Julian Garcia(Surrattsville), Ahmad George(Carroll), Nate Goldsmith(Bowie), Edward Hall(Paint Branch), NiiArmah Harper (McKinley Tech), Abdou Jobe (Paint Branch),Bryan Johnson(Laurel), Maurice Mason (Westlake), Trevor McDade(Bowie), Marcus McKoy(Douglass), Cameron Moore (Lanham Christian), Tony Mosely(Bowie), Pernell Murray(Douglass), Carl Parker(DeMatha), Garrett Putnam (McKinley Tech), Kenneth Settle (Atholton), Avy Smith(DeMatha),Christopher Smith (DuVall), David Thompson(Carroll), Aaron Walsh(Jerico), Charles Wilson(Blake), George Solomon (B-CC) and Harrison York (McKinley Tech)... Aaron Hutchinson, HoopKidz Summer Counselor joins HoopSelect MD as Coach. A Bowie State University Grad & former player worked as an Intern w/HoopKidz for 3 years... Final Thought- 'Don't Quit after a Victory!'... * HoopKidz/HoopElite uses Nike Basketballs and equipment exclusively* HoopKidz Basketball P.O. Box 1539 Bowie, MD 20717-1539 1-888-HOOPKIZ(466-7549), ext. 701... On the web, www.hoopkidz.com E-Mail us at info@hoopkidz.com