While name, image and likeness has created consternation and uncertainty about the state of college athletics on a national level, locally the new dynamic is creating interesting opportunities for both athletes and communities.
One such example is the chance for college athletes to offer training and skills development programs for youth.
IU basketball forward Miller Kopp is jumping into that space with a pair of two hour sessions in Bloomington in late June, one for boys and one for girls. The sessions are targeted for children in 5th through 8th grade.
The Houston, Texas product is looking forward to further connecting with Indiana fans and offering an opportunity he would have relished as a boy.
“It’s going to be a great time to connect with the community on a personal level and build relationships with kids throughout the community,” Kopp said in a release provided to The Daily Hoosier.
“I remember when I was in 5th-8th grade and I would have loved to be able to do something like this, so to be able to offer this now is awesome.”
The training sessions are limited to 25 participants, so there should be a good opportunity for the participants to have some personal interaction with Kopp.
Brandon Paquin, a trainer with Worldwide Hoops Training, is partnering with Kopp on the event.
“I’m so excited to partner with Miller Kopp for this youth skill clinic,” Paquin said. “He’s embraced IU and the Bloomington community like it’s his second home. And as an IU alum myself, there’s nothing like giving back.”
The skills clinics will be held on Sunday, June 26 at the Twin Lakes Recreation Center in Bloomington. The girls session runs from 2 to 4 p.m. Eastern and is immediately followed by the boys.
Registration links and a flyer for the event are below.
Registration links:
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