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The
History of the Kevin Clancy Newton Yellow Cab Basketball Tournament |
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| The
Kevin Clancy/Newton Yellow Cab Basketball Tournament has always emphasized
the belief that playing basketball should be about having fun and
making friends. Each spring, approximately 400 athletes, coaches,
family members, friends, and volunteers converge at Newton North High
School to fulfill this tradition. They come to play and watch basketball
- while having fun and creating friendship. Hosted by Newton Parks and Recreation and The Corporation for the Benefit of Special Needs Athletes, the Kevin Clancy/Yellow Cab Basketball Tournament has become a showcase for special needs basketball teams such as the Newton Poinstsetters and Newton Celtics. First begun in 1987, with the support of Richard Johnston, basketball aficionado and President of Newton Yellow Cab, it quickly became a popular event for athletes preparing to compete in the Massachusetts Special Olympic Spring Games. Through the generosity
of local businesses such as O’Hara’s and The event was renamed The Kevin Clancy/Newton Yellow Cab Basketball Tournament after Kevin Clancy, a member of Newton’s special needs basketball team, The Newton Celtics, passed away. As a child, Kevin frequently watched and played basketball with his family. When the Newton Celtics began playing, Kevin expressed his desire to join the team, but had to wait several years until he old enough to join the team. As soon as Kevin joined the team it was apparent that he had a special energy and flare for the game. His teammates loved him and he gained notoriety as a player who worked hard and had fun. Fans of the Newton Celtics often recall Kevin’s late game heroics at Fort Devens when he came off the bench shooting 3 pointers to lead his team. Kevin embodied the spirit of playing a sport for fun and friendship. His energy will always be with us. |
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