A two-day camp led by Sports Hall of Famer Rayfield Ragland brought basketball skills and drills to Russellville youth, hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department.

About two dozen young athletes ages 6-16 hit the court for Ragland’s instruction – among them, Asher, first grade, and Javan, fifth grade, who also attend weekly group sessions with Ragland on Friday nights. “Busy kids stay out of trouble, so we like to keep them busy,” mom Carmen Poss said. She said both of them commented on how challenging the camp was, but they both love the game, and “it’s good for them,” she added.

The camp was offered July 13-14 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Russellville Rec Center. Ragland said he wanted to instill not only improved basketball skills but also positive life skills in the campers.

“The biggest thing was to get them to understand work ethic and to know, ‘I can do anything if I just apply myself,’” Ragland said. He also encouraged leadership and communication principles. “It plays a big part of everyday life … These are very important traits to obtain right now at an early age.”

Amy Hamilton’s son Sam, 8, was another camp participant.

“He just really loves basketball. This is his sport he wants to focus on,” Hamilton said. “He’s enjoyed camp. He came home yesterday teaching me everything he had learned. He has two older brothers, and he was trying to teach them what to do.”

Ragland said he enjoys working with young athletes to see “that lightbulb click on in their heads.”

“I enjoy seeing them feel as if they can’t do something and then all of a sudden they realize they can do it,” Ragland said.

The camp is just one of many programs offered by the Russellville Parks and Recreation Department. Poss said she loves having the department and all its programs as a great asset in the community – particularly all the rec league sports that are offered.

“All kids can’t play travel ball. Here you can pay $35 and get your uniform and play a whole season close to home,” Poss said. Her sons will play flag football this fall.

Hamilton agreed that the department is a beneficial resource in Russellville.

“It just keeps the community involved – it keeps the kids busy,” she said. “It gives them something to do – something productive, something they can look forward to.”

For more information on Russellville Parks and Recreation programs, visit http://www.russellvilleparksandrecreation.com/ or find Russellville, Al Parks & Recreation Dept. on Facebook.