East Providence Mohawks Playoffs Feature Basketball Talent of 400 Townie Youths

More than 400 children -- from kindergarteners to high school students – took to the basketball court today to play for title of Mohawks Summer Blacktop League champions. The elimination-tournament fielded four rounds of competition in four divisions on three community basketball courts, located throughout the city and was organized by the non-profit East Providence Mohawks Youth Organization. Champions in each division were crowned in front of family and friends at Pierce Field.

The teams were selected by a draft in April and players of all abilities and experience were included on each team. Teams were organized by age groups and participated in six weeks of competition, with an average of two evening games per week.

“These kids are here to have something to do, to be with friends, and to play basketball” said Founder Damian Ramos. “They may (or may not) have played basketball for their school or have years of experience, but we want them to just get out there and play and have fun. Most importantly we want them to learn sportsmanship and teamwork. We keep the entry fee low and offer financial assistance to encourage everyone to play. They’re here because they want to be here.”

The Summer Blacktop League is one of several programs run by the non-profit organization which also includes a theatre program, travel basketball, lacrosse and more. “Our goal is to keep East Providence kids active, and offer them programs that previously weren’t available,” Ramos added. “Summer months for working parents can often be a time of stress and financial anxiety. The cost of camps, childcare and youth sports is skyrocketing. We want to offer affordable things for kids to do and make summer fun, again, for everyone.”

During the speaking program, a special award was presented to the East Providence Fire Fighters Local 850 for their support of the league in each of the four years that it has been in existence. A community block party followed with free food (donated by Stop & Shop) and entertainment provided by DJ Donnie Battle. Members of the Elisha Project volunteered as chefs to serve the BBQ fare and to keep everyone fed.

Winners were decided in four categories:

• Mini Baller Girls - EP Firefighters Local 850
• Mini Baller Boys - Red Bridge Tavern
• Jr Ballers - USVMC
• Sr Ballers - EP Firefighters Local 850A

Exceptional sportsmanship was recognized with a special award, named in honor of Antone Ramos. Winners included: Marquis Hall; Emily Leonard; Deshaun Davis; and Matt Dos Santos. Coach of the Year for each of the four divisions were John Dennis; David Andreozzi; Slade Sharma; and Mark McCarthy.

The East Providence Mohawks Youth Organization, epmohawks.org, is a non-profit, 501 (c) 3 community initiative that was founded by East Providence residents for the benefit of youth of East Providence and surrounding towns. The organization’s goal is to provide a safe, structured and positive environment to foster children’s character development through their participation in affordable and accessible organized sports, academic, cultural and social opportunities.