The Sunburst Youth Challenge Academy hosted trainers and coaches of the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation and Barton Brothers Fitness for an afternoon of basketball and training recently.
Cadets participated in a variety of exercises, which replicated the very same fitness drills that pro-athletes utilize in their daily routine such as speed and agility training, plyometrics, hurdles and more.
Lead by the Lakers’ Youth Foundation Coordinator Daryl Roper, cadets participated in additional shootout challenges for Lakers prizes.
The Sunburst Youth Challenge Academy hosted trainers and coaches of the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation and Barton Brothers Fitness for an afternoon of basketball and training recently.
Cadets participated in a variety of exercises, which replicated the very same fitness drills that pro-athletes utilize in their daily routine such as speed and agility training, plyometrics, hurdles and more.
Lead by the Lakers’ Youth Foundation Coordinator Daryl Roper, cadets participated in additional shootout challenges for Lakers prizes.
“[We] are thrilled to be here; a pride came over [us] when [we] came on base, and I think it has something to do with the military and how what you are doing here with these kids is beyond what you signed up for,” said Roper.
As the program continues to evolve, they hope to take cadets through more of these experiences where they can connect with their favorite sports teams such as the LA Lakers and Los Angeles Angels through outreach programs, game days, and more.
Disadvantaged youth of Southern California have the opportunity to become disciplined and skilled citizens due to the efforts of the academy located at Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos.
The academy hosts approximately 216 cadets ranging from various backgrounds through a five and a half month long residential phase where they live and learn directly on base.
During their tenure, cadets learn valuable skills through a variety of mentorship programs alongside our active National Guard and State Military Reserve personnel ranging from automotive studies to nursing.
In addition to vocational skills, cadets continue their education via an on-base schoolhouse, coordinated by the Orange County Department of Education where they can finish their primary high school education, or gain credits towards a college education.
For more information on the Sunburst Youth Challenge Academy, interested applicants and parents can visit theburst.org. Sunburst, your best chance for a second chance.
