WHEREAS, In January 2000, The Philadelphia 76ers La Liga del Barrio Neighborhood League was founded through the efforts of then Councilman Angel Ortiz, the Sixers, and a dedicated group of Latino sports educators and enthusiasts; and
WHEREAS, Since it was founded 25 years ago, La Liga is the City’s first Latino youth basketball league that provides a safe, supportive environment for young adults and children to thrive, build a strong sense of community, and develop positive like skills; and
WHEREAS, La Liga’s goal is to use basketball to engage young people from underrepresented communities in a organized after school activity that will help develop their basketball skills, the physical and mental preparation that sport demands and the basic enjoyment of a great sport. Its fundamental purpose is to promote educational achievement, discipline, and inclusion for all religious denominations, peer group socialization, and collaboration; and
WHEREAS, La Liga is in the heart of Philadelphia’s Latino Community within the Eastern North Philadelphia section of the City and the Aspira, Inc. School gym is used for the league’s games; and
WHEREAS, The Philadelphia 76ers have sponsored La Liga del Barrio since its inception which presented a unique opportunity for Latino youth to appreciate the dynamic and animated tradition of the 76er’s professional franchise. The 76ers supply strong support for La Liga Del Barrio by providing training for league coaches, active participation for various team personnel and by dedicating one night a year as La Liga night at the Wells Fargo Center where teams from the league are honored and participate in preliminary games; and
WHEREAS, La Liga del Barrio is a pillar of the Philadelphia community with a dedicated commitment to youth empowerment through sports, character development alongside athletic training, and a focus on academic success; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and celebrates the 25th Anniversary of La Liga del Barrio and recognizes its ongoing commitment to provide opportunities for Latino youth in Philadelphia by providing a positive outlet for educational, athletic, and personal development.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution will be presented to La Liga del Barrio as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
End