Hoops not just for kids

Rec ball gives adults exercise and good, clean fun

St. Charles Parish has an Industrial Basketball League that provides opportunities for men for fellowship with their colleagues while doing one of their favorite past times.

With over ten teams in the league, these men from all over the parish play hard and have much much fun. Every Tuesday and Thursday, teams from companies like Valero to St Charles Parish, to Rycars Construction and Motiva, step out on the court to display some hidden talent but most of all to have fun and to exercise.

Kendrick Wysingle, who plays for St. Charles 5O, just enjoys the game. “I play for the exercise and good clean fun,” said Kendrick. “It allows us to bond with each other and play a game we really enjoy.”

Assistant Director Robert Brown feels that the industrial league provides the recreation department an opportunity for men in the parish to play a sport that they enjoy and that is organized. “We have had as many as 16 teams to participate, these men enjoy the game and the fellowship.” All teams do pay a one-time fee which pays for the courts and the officials. Their participation helps support the recreation department as well keep the program alive and strong. “We will continue to look for ways to build this program and invite the community to support the game by attending and cheering on family members,” said Brown.

Keith Keller of Motiva has played for this league over a period of 25 years. His son Vyron Keller plays for Rycars as well. “It is the only organized basketball outlet for adults and the parish,” said Vyron Keller. “I have loved the game of basketball since the age of 12 and that feeling has never gone away.” “I started playing many years ago for the competition but now play for the exercise,” said Keith Keller. Both men feel that their experience allows time for fun and cardiovascular exercise with small amounts of competition. “I expect my team to win, but if we can entertain those who are watching, that’s extra,” said Vyron.

These two men circle their personal calendars for the day they meet on the court. “My son typically takes my jersey and hangs it up on my staircase like a retired player then proceeds to taunt me, said Keith Keller. “However, I don’t let the age factor interfere with my game.” “It takes me back to the days playing in the driveway with my father,” said Vyron, “but now the tables are turned.” “This experience helps establish rapport and allows social mentoring in a positive social environment with younger employees,” said Ketih Keller.

 

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply