2021:
Springfield Public Schools students in grades K-6 are invited to a special basketball game with Missouri State basketball players and Springfield police officers.
Missouri State men's basketball coach Dana Ford has announced the 2021 summer schedule for the Bears, Badges and Kids program. Ford helped get the initiative off the ground a year ago as an opportunity to bring local youth, Missouri State men's basketball players and local law enforcement officials together for monthly basketball clinics throughout the Springfield community.
Ford has helped organize the events with collaboration from the Springfield Police Department, the City of Springfield, the Community Partnership of the Ozarks, the Springfield Dream Center, Hy-Vee, Domino's and SFC Bank to create this unique opportunity.
The events are free for children in grades K-6 and will take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon on the fourth Saturday of every month. The complete event schedule and locations are as follows:
Saturday, Sept. 25 – John B. Hughes Apartments (2100 N. Clifton Ave.)
"I am looking forward to continuing the connection between our local youth and the men and women who serve and protect our city," said Ford. "These positive experiences have led to a better understanding for both sides."
Each participating child will receive a free lunch, T-shirt and replica badge. There is no cost to sign up, but advanced registration is required to ensure that all participants are adequately rewarded for participating. REGISTRATION LINK
The Bears, Badges and Kids program began in June 2020 and included six events in its first year. Its development led to Ford recently receiving a Citizen Service Commendation from the Springfield Police Department.
For questions or additional information, please contact Michael Collins in the Missouri State basketball office at collins207@live.missouristate.edu or (417) 836-4136.
