Hundreds of people gathered at Fairgrounds Park in Saint Louis, Missouri today to take in some intense 3-on-3 basketball and enjoy a variety of complimentary services offered by local organizations. As teams from across the area competed in tournament style play, locals enjoyed free food and health exams, and engaged in political discourse.
Volunteers with Barack Obama’s Campaign for Change circulated in the crowd, passing out stickers to supporters and registering new voters. Local elected Democratic officials and candidates were also present, connecting with the community and enjoying the festivities.
The third annual tournament and community fair was organized by State Senator Jeff Smith. As he told us yesterday, he feels basketball can instill life lessons in its participants that extend far beyond the court.
I learned to play basketball at parks across the northside when I was growing up, and the friendships I made and lessons I learned on the court are a big part of the person I am today… you learn about teamwork and forge deep bonds with your teammates, and you develop a competitive fire that's tough to extinguish.
That’s a passion that he hopes to see translate into political action, not only in the local community but on the national level as well.
Below are pictures from today’s event. To get involved in your own area, sign up to take part in an existing event or create your own.
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