The innovative “Hoops for Youth” program, which enables underprivileged children to attend UCLA men’s and women’s basketball games at historic Pauley Pavilion is seeking donations for the 2017-18 season. The program is chaired by UCLA basketball legend Ann Meyers Drysdale and is run by the Los Angeles Sports Council Foundation in partnership with the UCLA Athletic Department. “UCLA basketball is in my blood. I know how magical it is to be part of the tradition of UCLA basketball and I want others to have the opportunity to experience that tradition first-hand as well,” she said. Now entering its third year, Hoops For Youth is funded through tax-deductible contributions from individuals and corporations. Each $25 donation enables a youngster to attend a game; UCLA Athletics distributes the tickets to youth groups affiliated with the athletic department. (Pursuant to NCAA recruiting requirements, tickets are made available only to youth in the 6th grade or below.) Meyers Drysdale was a member of the 1976 U.S. Olympic team and the Bruins’1978 women’s national championship team. She is enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “For most of these kids it will be their first opportunity to see a college basketball game in person or to set foot on the UCLA campus,” said UCLA Director of Athletics Dan Guerrero. Anyone interested in contributing to Hoops for Youth should call (213) 482-6333.
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