Honoring Officer Aréanah Preston, Uniting Community in Peace and Love
The 2nd Annual Hoop Hard or Get Off the Court Basketball event celebrated the legacy of Officer Aréanah Preston with a day of unity, youth sports, and heartfelt remembrance at Chicago’s CPD Training Academy.
Since 2015, Hoop Hard or Get Off the Court has hosted constructive community events for youth through basketball leagues and softball tournaments. The January 19 event continued this tradition, showcasing camaraderie and remembrance. The day featured a packed schedule of games. To kick things off, third- and fourth-graders from the West Side Sports Team Austin faced off against the Hinsdale Inferno. Later, seventh- and eighth-grade girls from Team Takema and Team Sis displayed skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship. A special Chicago Police Department game saw Team Foster compete against Team Modaine, while another match featured CPD’s Third District taking on the Fifth District.
A Celebration of Life
A heartfelt ceremony dedicated to Officer Preston, a beloved officer who died in the line of duty on May 6, 2023, served as the event’s centerpiece. Attendees remembered her courage and unwavering commitment to her community.
Award winners and standout players were recognized for their achievements on and off the court. Social media buzzed with congratulations, with many noting the unity and love that defined the event.
Larry Daniels Honored Community Leaders
Larry Daniels, the event’s organizer, also honored Chicago Defender Publisher Dyanna Lewis, Karen Dilligard, and Lanette Warbington for their community contributions, making the day a true celebration of success.
Community Unity and Resilience
Beyond honoring Officer Preston’s memory, the event reinforced the importance of unity and resilience within the community. Daniels and his team have built more than just a basketball tournament – they’ve established a tradition that brings people together and demonstrates the power of collective action. This annual event stands as a testament to what communities can achieve when they unite for a common cause.
Photography
[Photo by Lanette Warbington]
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[Photo by Lanette Warbington]
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Conclusion
The Hoop Hard or Get Off the Court Basketball event, now in its 2nd year, continues to demonstrate the power of unity and resilience in the community. By honoring the legacy of Officer Aréanah Preston, the event served as a celebration of life and a reminder of the importance of community bonding. We look forward to the future of this impactful event, where we can come together as a community and uplift one another.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What was the purpose of the Hoop Hard or Get Off the Court event?
- The event celebrated the life and legacy of Officer Aréanah Preston while promoting community unity and sportsmanship.
- What kind of games and activities took place at the event?
- The event featured various basketball games for youth teams from different ages, as well as a special police department game. There were also award ceremonies for outstanding players.
- What was honored beyond Officer Preston’s memory?
- Community leaders, including Chicago Defender Publisher Dyanna Lewis, Karen Dilligard, and Lanette Warbington, were also honored for their contributions.
- How long has Hoop Hard or Get Off the Court been running?
- Since 2015, Hoop Hard or Get Off the Court has been hosting constructive community events for youth.
