Senate President Malcolm A. Smith and Legendary Hip-Hop Artist L.L. Cool J. Kick-off Sixth Annual Jump N Ball Tournament

The five-week athletic program is dedicated to bringing wholesome fun to young people in Southeast Queens.

(St. Albans, NY)- New York State Senate President Malcolm A. Smith  and renowned Hip-Hop Artist LL Cool J joined forces for the Sixth year in a row to host the Annual Jump N Ball Basketball and Double Dutch Tournament. The games are being held at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans, Queens. The five-week athletic program is dedicated to bringing wholesome fun to young people in Southeast Queens.

“It’s important for kids to be in a positive atmosphere during the summer,” said Senator Smith. “Young people need to be reminded that there are other outlets for them to have fun that are productive and beneficial to their lives. Jump N Ball is that outlet for them.”

LL Cool J said: “It feels so good to give back to the community that has given me so much.”

For those who choose to opt-out of competing in the five week tournament, they have the option of showcasing their best moves in a dance contest or  participating in a spelling bee.

Lunch and refreshments are also provided every weekend in the park for participants as well as spectators.

Anthony Hill, Specialist in Queens Public Affairs at Con Edison said: “Con Edison is pleased to support programs that promote the community. Events like Jump N Ball strengthen the ties that bind our neighborhood, by bringing elected officials and residents together for a day of fun, food, entertainment, and information.”

This year’s tournament is co-sponsored by Carver Bank, Consolidated Edison Inc., Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Greater Allen Cathedral of New York, Jet Blue Airways Corporation, One Try Competition, Scholastic Inc and TD Bank.

The tournaments culminate the last weekend in August with championship games. Trophies that stand almost as tall as some of the players are handed out to the winning teams.

Senator Smith concluded: “We give trophies that stand tall because we want the young people to stand tall and proud.”

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