“No other program at our school had ever grossed this much interest.”

“From a physical educator’s stand point, NetWorks BC Program could not align more perfectly with the physical education curriculum and goals.”

“Students have also discovered success is achieved through hard work, commitment, and good character.”

“Students are transferring learned behaviors from practice into the classroom.”

“Ball handling members are willing to help others in a class learn a new skill and are the first to encourage another student.”

“The positive “I can” attitude is beginning to filter out from the club members into their traditional classrooms and is creating a more success orientated learning environment for students not involved in the program.”

“The students in our club have made a commitment to excellence through hard work.”

“They have become personally responsible for their own development.”

“The club members have gained a belief in one’s self and developed love and compassion to help others.”

“I have learned skills and instructional techniques that I will be able to incorporate into my Physical Education classes.”

“The “Because I Can” Program is about determination and individual growth.”

“There is no other youth organization like it.”

“It is the single best character education program I have ever seen.”

“I am very impressed with the structure of the program and how they use the fun of basketball to reach a variety of students.”

“While (the BC program) looks like a group of children doing basketball tricks, it is actually a program that infuses character education into each of its activities. Students are constantly, although inconspicuously, reminded that the effort they put into learning the “cool” things they do with the basketball should also be applied to learning the not-so-cool information their teachers are offering, that the respect they show to the teachers who lead the club is expected by the teachers who lead their classrooms, and that the responsibility they demonstrate in remembering to bring their equipment to practice is the same trait they should utilize in completing their homework assignments.”

“They (kids) have begun to learn that success – whether on the court or in life – requires commitment, character, and a tireless work ethic. I can think of no better lesson we can teach our young people.”

“Ballhandling is so great! It taught me how to be responsible. It also taught me how to work hard at something and to stick with it.”

“The most important thing I’ve learned is the character traits, like respect, perseverance, and the one I like the most, kindness.”

“I learned how to work hard and get better. Just like Coach says, sweat is success.”

“Through the BC words and actions, they instill courage, perseverance, responsibility, and self-discipline. These traits will impact the lives of BC kids, their families, and the community.”

“My son has challenging issues in school with work; this program has given him the ability to be more outgoing and confident in himself.”

“The BCs gave my daughter a chance to understand that hard work is the basis for all achievements.”

Dear Coach Hollis,

(Our children) participate (or have participated) in the BC at Green Hope Elementary. They have all enjoyed the experience greatly, and my wife and I feel it has been very good for all of them, in different ways. …the skills part has been fun to watch… The character skills, including the commitment to do the homework, home drills, and early morning practices have spilled over into other parts of their behavior. They do pay attention to the meaning behind what they are learning and we often discuss them at the dinner table. …the competitions encourage team building and individual performance along with the self-esteem support that goes with such endeavors.

I believe using the program as a platform to study and prove the positive impact on youngsters is an excellent idea.