Education First,
Athletics Second Coalition
Sign your child up for our programs and athletics today!
Basketball Clinic 09-o8-26
Email Player Registration Info to admin@edfirst.org or 816-392-9847
Coach Wallace,
"Thank you for the time you donate and services you offer to help children learn the proper fundamentals of the game of basketball. Our family greatly appreciates the effort that you and the other coaches put forth to provide a safe and inclusive environment while teaching them not only basketball but life skills as well.
Our son Malcolm has autism, and although he is on a high-functioning portion of the spectrum, he struggles in social settings due to the debilitating anxiety and communication difficulties associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Malcolm enjoys playing sports, but the social aspects of team sports prevent him from fully participating. As such, we are constantly looking for opportunities for him to experience different sports in settings where he feels comfortable.
Your approach to teaching the fundamentals with both verbal instructions and a demonstration of each drill has taught Malcolm several new skills. He is learning the importance of increased ball control and proper dribbling. Ball-handling techniques combined with footwork drills are helping him learn to perform multiple tasks at the same time. These combined tasks are frequently difficult for Malcolm and other children with ASD to perform. It is so difficult, in fact, that Malcolm has seen an occupational therapist for five years to help him learn how to “cross the midline”, an ability that he has improved following your instructions and practicing ball-handling drills. We have also sent recordings of him practicing basketball to his OT to assist in his therapy.
Your emphasis on having the children encourage each other by clapping and saying supportive words helps Malcolm and the other children understand that a team works together. He is learning what it means to be part of a team, as well as to support and be supported by his teammates. This, in turn, helps him get a better sense of sportsmanship and being part of a community."
Jeremiah and Laura Jackson, parents
“I commend the Education First, Athletics Second Coalition for the great things they do in the community and for our children. [I'm glad] to share my personal experiences with this fantastic, character building organization.”
--K. DeLarber, parent
"I heartily recommend the organization as one that is making a difference in the lives of adolescents that will have lasting impact.”
-- D. Blevins, parent
OUR MISSION
The mission of Education First, Athletics Second Coalition (EdFirst) is to build strong community relationships through education, recreation, and positive interaction between adults and youth.
EdFirst strives to provide youth and adults in the Kansas City metropolitan area with the education and leadership skills they need to be successful and productive in today’s society.
Greyhound Athletics
Greyhound Athletics involves student athletes from the Kansas City metro area and beyond. Players ages 8 to 16 represent a diverse cross section of the community and compete in three divisions.
OBJECTIVES:
1) To ensure that all school student athletes are academically prepared for middle, high school, and college.
2) To empower participants with the resources needed to earn a college scholarship.
3) To teach life skills necessary to be productive, positive members of our community.
Building Tomorrow's Leaders
Through Education First
Testimonies
