The excitement surrounding Cleveland’s new WNBA team, the Cleveland Sirens, reached the YMCA during the team’s recent launch week.
Sirens President Allison Howard, former WNBA player Rushia Brown and other representatives visited the Lakewood Family YMCA and Warrensville Heights Family YMCA to connect with local children and celebrate the power of sports. Brown, who played for the Cleveland Rockers, led participants through basketball activities from her Play Like a Girl program, encouraging girls to build their skills, confidence and love of the game.
The visits highlighted the values shared by the Sirens and the YMCA: strengthening the community, creating opportunities for young people and helping girls see what is possible for their futures. For participants, it was an opportunity to learn from accomplished women in professional basketball—and to have plenty of fun on the court.
Basketball has long been an important part of the YMCA’s commitment to youth development. The YMCA of Greater Cleveland and the Cleveland Cavaliers created the Junior Cavaliers program to give children a positive, accessible introduction to the sport. Similar youth basketball programs have since been adopted by most NBA teams.
We are proud that the WNBA recognizes the YMCA’s commitment to children, especially girls, and to making basketball available to young people throughout Greater Cleveland. As the Sirens begin their journey in our community, we look forward to the many ways our organizations can work together to help the next generation learn, grow and thrive