AUTHORITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
NFTA Transit Police Encourages Youth to Register for “C.O.P.S.S.” Basketball Camp
BUFFALO, N.Y. -The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) is proud to partner with community organizations and local law enforcement to promote Children Overcoming Police Stereotypes Through Sports (C.O.P.S.S.), a free youth basketball camp designed to foster positive relationships between young people and police officers through teamwork, mentorship, and sports.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from and interact with Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead, who will lead basketball instruction and share his experiences both on and off the court. The camp will also feature Buffalo Police Officer Moe Badger, widely known as a member of the popular “Singing Cops,” who will join NFTA Police and officers from across the community in engaging with youth throughout the day.
“This event is about building trust, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for young people to connect with positive role models in our community,” said NFTA Police Chief Brian Patterson. “We encourage families to take advantage of this free opportunity and register early.”
The goal of the event is simple but impactful: to create meaningful, positive interactions between children and law enforcement officers while encouraging healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and mutual understanding.
"Buffalo raised me, so giving back to this community is personal," said Polo Kerber, a representative of Shead. "Seeing the Raptors' fan base grow in Western New York and having someone like Jamal show up and pour into this community once again makes it worthwhile. My hope is that every camper walks away with a memory that will stick with them for a long time."
In addition to basketball activities, all participants will receive lunch courtesy of Cusimano’s Pizzeria. The camp is open to area youth, but registration is required. Families can register online from now until July 3rd at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedBOq9V6nwBfffbpnQ2wtU0HzxvN1voOzu7jaKCZAA7o6zhA/viewform
Event Details
What: Children Overcoming Police Stereotypes Through Sports (C.O.P.S.S.) Basketball Camp
When: Tuesday, July 14, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School
18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY, United States, 14214
Featured Guest: Toronto Raptors player Jamal Shead
Special Guest: Buffalo Police Officer Moe Badger (“Singing Cops”)
Cost: Free
Lunch: Provided by Cusimano’s Pizzeria
Registration: Required
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