(l-r) T.J. “The Tomahawk” Stukes, Harlem Wizards, spins a basketball on his fingers for fans Austin Myers, Dorins and Amandi White, and Sam Fosten as part of Stonington High School’s basketball fundraiser on January 9th.
story & photo
by Christopher Annino
The legendary Harlem Wizards were invited to put on a show at Stonington High School on January 9th. With their acrobatic high flying dunks and their amazing ball handling skills The Harlem Wizards have brought worldwide joy and entertainment for 50 years. Over their five decades of existence, the Harlem Wizards raised millions of dollars for charities and non-profits, while providing sensational basketball entertainment.
“I played at Southern so it is always great to come back home to Connecticut,” said Dwain “Swoop” Simpson, player and coach, Harlem Wizards. “I always enjoyed playing basketball and entertaining people with what I can do. I was also with the Harlem Globetrotters. During my years with them and with the Wizards, I have understood the role and impact that an individual like me has on a kid;s life. There are not many people that step up to be remodels but the Harlem Wizards pride ourselves in trying to be positive remodels. My mother always said that it takes a village to raise a child and it is very true.”
The Harlem Wizards competed against the Stonington Super Stars, a skilled group of teachers, alum, and coaches, in a charity basketball game to raise funds for the Stonington High School Athletics Department. The event was put on by Caroline Chapman and the Stonington High School Boosters which is a group of parents, teachers, coaches and friends of Stonington High School Athletes who volunteer their time at sporting events. They also provide scholarships and awards for Stonington High School athletes. “The Wizards come every year, and every year they put on a great show. We are so lucky to have them,” said Caroline Chapman.
The game was great family fun. The Wizards, who won, created a tremendous atmosphere for people to come and enjoy themselves for a good cause. After the game Ben Chapman, Stonington Super Star player and center for UConn Huskies Football, said, “This is so fun being apart of this. We had such a good game with the Wizards and hope they come back again next year.”
For more information on the Harlem Wizards go to www.harlemwizards.com.
