Students Visit Cavs Training Facility, Discuss Life Lessons
Nov. 1, 2018 -- The Cavaliers basketball organization hosted 23 Heights High students for a tour of their practice facility in Independence, a private observation of Jordan Clarkson in a shooting workout and a conversation with Andre Patterson, Cavaliers Director of Basketball Operations and former NBA player.
The October 26 after-school visit was coordinated by Heights High social studies teacher Mark Sack and his friend Cleveland Cavaliers General Manager, Koby Altman. MSAN (Minority Student Achievement Network) students, the boys and girls basketball teams, and students from the New Heights after-school program were included on the trip.
After the facility tour, Mr. Patterson spoke to the students and encouraged them to invest in their academic achievement, focus on goals to work together and listen to the advice of trusted teachers and coaches.
A topic that ‘hit home’ with the students was when Mr. Patterson talked about overcoming different kinds of adversity. He said that during his career he had suffered several injuries that required numerous major surgeries. He also explained that even when others had ‘counted him out’, he found the inner strength, the patience, and the work ethic to make his way back onto the court.
After the discussion with Mr. Patterson, each student received a Cavs long sleeve shirt and winter hat. The group was thrilled with the gift and thought that was ‘it’, however, Mr. Altman’s assistant, Lauren Marvinney broke out the last surprise. Each student received two tickets to the Cavs game the following night against the Indiana Pacers.
“The students really enjoyed the experience,” said Mr. Sack. “The Heights High community is very grateful to Mr. Altman and the entire Cavs organization for the very meaningful opportunity.”
Mr. Altman could not meet with the students and conveyed his regret through his assistant. The group learned that he was out of town for a few days conducting business for the Cavaliers organization.
“We were given the impression that he may be traveling to strengthen the Cavs chances of making the playoffs this year,” continued Mr. Sack.
In addition to Mr. Sack, the students were accompanied on the field trip by Michael Cruz, Heights High Head Coach of Men’s Varsity Team, Nikki Blade, Heights High Assistant Coach of Women’s Varsity Team, Stephen Walker, 21st Century Grant Coordinator and Betsy Stimpert, Development and Marketing Associate, Heights Schools Foundation (Formerly CHHS Alumni Foundation).
The transportation to the facility was sponsored by a 21st Century - New Heights Project grant.