A non-profit organization is focused on giving eighth and ninth grade boys in Columbus and Bladen counties a chance to be successful both on and off the basketball court. Columbus County Elite (CCE) AAU gives students the opportunity to compete in the game and gain life skills to further their athletic and academic career at the same time. Last weekend, June 10-11, the kids showed off their talent and brought home championship titles after competing in the National Travel Ball Association’s Summer Jam.
CCE is run by founder and head coach Kendall Thurman. Thurman has been a youth athletics coach for several years, and he, along with Coach James Smith, and team managers Brianna Smith and Kenya Jones, help the junior high and freshman boys to sharpen and hone their basketball skills. The CCE also gives the kids the opportunity to feel like they are a part of something.
Both teams for the CCE, eighth and ninth grade divisions, won first place in their tournament.
“I could write a book about these boys right here. Proud isn’t the word,” said Brianna Smith. “This was well deserved.”
Practice for the teams is held at Whiteville High School, and most of the ball tournaments are played at recreation facilities in North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, and Fayetteville. The next game for the CCE boys will take place from July 10-15 in Myrtle Beach. The teams will be competing in the boys’ nationals.
Donations for Columbus County Elite AAU for any amount are always appreciated. They are tax-deductible, and documents needed for tax returns will be provided upon request. The proceeds are used to buy uniforms, equipment, pay tournament fees, and cover travel expenses. If you would like to help out the CCE or if you have student who may be interested in trying out for the team, contact Thurman at 910.301.8685, Brianna Smith at 910.625.4895, or Kenya Jones at 910.633.9538.
