MORE THAN 150 ATTEND BASKETBALL CAMP

Story and Photos by Staff Sgt Ryan Hansen
Air Armament Center Public Affairs

Five day event teaches campers about hoops, life

The fifth annual Perseverance Basketball Camp concludes today at the Eglin Fitness Center with more than 150 children from the ages of 7 to 16 a little sharper at basketball and life.

“Obviously you’d always like to have a few more kids, but this has been a good turnout,” said Ron Rucker, camp founder and director, who is a master sergeant at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Computer Support Program, at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. “But the surprising thing is, most of these kinds have come from off base, which is great. They are getting exposure to the military and learning to play basketball.” The camp not only teaches the attendees the fundamentals of the game of basketball, but it also strives to develop their self esteem, foster teamwork and bridge the gap between diverse backgrounds.

“This camp is a real good thing for the kids,” said Pierre Ryan, an Eglin dependent and camp instructor. “They learn the fundamentals and have a chance to meet new kids and make new friends.”

The Perseverance Basketball Camp has endeared itself to so many children through its first five years that now many of the one-time students have come back as instructors.

And as many as four camp participants have gone on to earn college scholarships to play basketball.

“This camp is great because Coach Rucker rally focuses on the fundamentals,” said Roland Williams, a Senior guard at Georgia College and State University, who once attended the camp and now comes back to visit.” “I didn’t really have that growing up so I had to learn later on in life, but these kids are getting it here.”

However, for most of the camp attendees a college scholarship is the farthest thing from their mind. They are just focused on having a good time, making new friends and playing a little basketball.

“I just love playing basketball,” said Shanice Cooper, 12, who was attending her third camp. “I’ve learned to shoot better and I learned new things every time I come.”

“I’ve learned the triple threat position,” said Zachery Cragin, 10.” “I can shoot, pass or dribble from that one position.”

“I’m getting to know how to play the game,” said Stephan Sternad, 10. “Plus I’ve met a few new friends.”

Regardless if the attendees are there for fun or scholarships, Rucker is glad to continue to put on the camp. Currently he runs two camps in Ohio and this one here at Eglin.

“I love to see the kids smiles and see them learn new things throughout the week,” Rucker said. “Plus you never know, we could have the next great military fighter pilot here at the camp.”