LA Clippers Recognize FRG for Children’s Education Program
On December 8th, the LA Clippers informed the Friends of Virginia Robinson Gardens that they would be recognized for their Children’s Education program by a Clippers Player inspired program called Tobi’s Heroes. Tobi’s Heroes honors people in our community who encourage and support children through sport, community service, or education. Tobi Oyedeji was a close friend from Texas of the Clippers’ Deandre Jordan. Tobi died in a car accident shortly after Jordan was drafted to the Clippers in 2008. Jordan tweets #35@TobiOye before every game; his friend is the inspiration for Tobi’s Heroes.
On December 12th, Fernando Marroquin and I attended a LA Clippers game on behalf of the Children’s Program and the Friends of Robinson Gardens. Fernando and I are part of the kids’ tour team that ensures that the children, usually around 40 students at a time once or twice a week, receive the best experience possible while learning about and safely exploring the Gardens. It was an honor for both of us to be at the game representing the program, the Friends, and all the County staff that make these tours possible.
We were in contact with Liana Cisneros, the Community Relations Coordinator for the Clippers throughout the entire process, and she was fantastic. She handed us tickets to four great seats upon arrival and informed us that we would be escorted down to center court after halftime. She led Fernando and me down in the 3rd quarter, and we gave our best smiles and waves for the camera as we were flanked by Princess Leia impersonators to celebrate Star Wars Rogue One night. The Friends of Robinson Gardens was recognized by the announcer and on the big screen scoreboard. It was such an exciting and inspiring experience to be down on the court at the Staples Center in front of thousands of people. The Clippers defeated the Trailblazers, and the children now have a Star Wars Death Star basketball, handed out at the game, to play with on the tennis court at the end of their tour of the Gardens.
Post by Josh Johnston
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