APD vs. The E: Basketball takes center court

Albany, NY – Members of the Albany Police Department will square off against teens from the Equinox Youth Center tonight--on the basketball court, that is. 

Dubbed “APD vs. The E”, the game is the culmination of an ongoing friendly competition between the two teams, and will take place on the center court of the Arbor Hill Community Center. 

“Building strong connections with caring adults, and engaging in positive activities help young people successfully weather adversity,” said Jill Rafferty-Weinisch, Director of Youth Services. “We’re so grateful for the relationship our young people have built with the officers and we’re looking forward to a lively game.”

The relationship between the teens and the APD is the outgrowth of ongoing involvement of officers from the Community Engagement Unit in Equinox’s Youth Outreach Center. The officers regularly participate in activities and socialize with youth at the Center, establishing a trust that carries into the broader community. 

Chief Krokoff says “I would like to commend Equinox for being such a vital part of our community.  As we continuously strive to build community partnerships and engage our City’s youth, Equinox has been instrumental in offering countless programs and support to our children. Working together we will encourage our youth to expand their horizons and realize their full individual potential as members of our community. Through a collaborative effort we will continue to provide the tools and resources necessary to guide our children into mature, well rounded, and successful adults.  I am proud of the strong community partnership that has been established with Equinox over the years and look forward to participating with them in all their future endeavors.”

Rodger Wyland, Sports Director at WNYT-NewsChannel 13, will be on hand to introduce both line-ups. The game will follow official tournament rules (two 20-minute halves) with the oversight of professional officials who are volunteering their time. Coaching “The E” will be D.J. TGIF from Jamz 96.3, a former Equinox teen. The National Anthem will be performed by Equinox youth.

The half-time show will feature two Equinox dance teams and the Arbor Hill Community Center’s “Nanny’s Double Dutch League.” Team jerseys have been donated by the Albany Police & Fire Foundation and the winner will lay claim to a trophy donated by an anonymous fan.

The game will take place at the Arbor Hill Community Center, located at 47 Lark Street, Albany, on Wednesday, May 8. The game is free and open to the public. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. The game will start at 7:00 p.m.