THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, MARCH 1, 2024 Page 11 City of Everett highlights Everett’s Black athletes in series of events Attendees had the opportunity to learn about Everett’s Black athletes of the past and the many success stories that have helped shape today’s community pride in sports T he City of Everett’s Youth Development and EnrichPictured from left to right: Youth Workforce Development Assistant Briana Hyppolite, Jeff Saint Dic, Marc Benjamin, Assistant Director of Youth Workforce Development Roberto Velasquez, Director of Veterans Affairs Antoine Coleman and Director of Youth Development and Enrichment John Russolillo. ment Department hosted a series of events titled “Journey of Champions: Black History Month Everett Athletics Celebration” from Tuesday, Feb. 19 to Friday, Feb. 23, highlighting Everett’s Black athletes of the past. The series of events, which took place during February vacation week when most schools are on break, presented an opportunity for people of all ages, especially the youth, to learn about Everett’s Black history in sports and participate in a recreational activity. The featured sports and themes were broken up into their own events, which were Basketball Night, Track and Field Night, Women of Color in Sport Night and Football Night. Attendees were able to hear from featured athletes about their experiences in sports and how the past has contributed to their success today. All who attended were also able to enjoy various free refreshments at each event. “Everett’s Black athletes have had a tremendous impact on our community’s pride in sports, and I’m glad our residents, especially our youth, had the opportunity to learn more about these remarkable individuals and about how sports can play an important role in so many different ways in the present and the future,” said Mayor Carlo DeMaria. “I’d like to thank our new Director of Youth Development and Enrichment John Russolillo and his team for helping put together this series as part of our Black History Month programming, as well as everyone who participated in and contributed to these events.” “Black History Month is not just a time to reflect on the past, but a celebration of the vibrant culture and resilience of the Black community in the United States,” said Russolillo. “We are honored to have been part of this inspirBLACK ATHLETES | SEE PAGE 12 Posters displayed many archive photos from different eras of Everett High School sports. Free refreshments were provided to all who attended. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net
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