Hoops For Hope is something that I've thought about doing for a few years and have finally begun to put it together. Maybe I just needed some inspiration or maybe I'm finally coming into my own. Responsibility has never been a strong character trait for me until recently. Putting this tournament together has been a test and so far with the help of Family and Friends it's off to a good start. (psssssst....I'm the brainchild and my mother is the driving force)
A few days ago while discussing tournament preparartions with said mother, she asked me if I would be dissapointed by a small turnout. Since this is our first time creating a fundraiser from scratch I have been somewhat skeptical that it would be a success. We've had to deal with getting permits from Toms River Twp, getting insurance and approval from the ALS Association and quite honestly we've been extremely busy. Needless to say the time has flown from the moment I decided to officially put the wheels in motion and I worry that there isn't enough time to mobilize people and get them to schedule this event on their calendar. Everyone is busy and yes it has to be said....it's tough economically as well.
To be honest I will probably be slightly dissapointed if there are let's say less then 10 teams that sign up, but I'm trying to remember the reason why I wanted to do this in the first place. To honor my Grandfather, William "Poppy" Johnson while also raising awareness and money for the ALS Association so that maybe one day other families won't have to lose a loved one to this horrific disease commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Poppy was the greatest man I've ever known and the love that so many people had for him made it seem as if he was larger than life. His passing has proved to me that he was indeed larger than life because I see so much of him in my little cousins and my entire family. In many ways I aspire to be like Poppy, although I don't think I'll ever have eight kids.
Why Basketball?
Because I love it and many other people do too. Some of my closest friends have been made on the street with nothing but a ball and a hoop and my favorite memories of Poppy were playing basketball in his driveway while he gave his own play by play ("Earl the Pearl from the corner!")
So that's why I decided to put this event together. Plus, it's always nice to rally around a great cause.
This is a learning experience and hopefully we can do it again next year when we're better prepared and know what to expect. If you're reading this right now and you think you might want to help spread the word, or help with the event, please don't hesitate to ask. I hope to see you there!
Thank You,
Aaron Hodges
You can reach me at hoopsforhope@msn.com or 732-608-4699
We are working on sponsors this week for food, prizes, etc.....
I believe we'll have a DJ at the event as well. Just have to make sure we have the capabilities. Directions to Skyview Park will be up tomorrow along with more in depth details about the tournament.
