HUNTSVILLE – On the eve of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the city of Huntsville is sponsoring an event inspired by the legacy of the civil rights icon.

The city invites “aspiring young basketball stars looking to sharpen their skills on the court” to sign up for the free Parks & Recreation Department’s MLK Youth Basketball Clinic at https://www.facebook.com/events/325308087129417.

The clinic seeks to engage and uplift youth through the spirit of sportsmanship. It also aims to provide an inclusive environment for skill development while encouraging a sense of community.

“Dr. King believed in the power of community and unity,” said James Gossett, Parks & Recreation director. “Our basketball clinic reflects those principles. It’s not just about honing basketball skills; it’s about bringing community together and giving back.”

The event is Jan. 14, from 1-4 p.m. at the Dr. Richard Showers Sr., Recreation Center, 4600 Blue Spring Road. Led by experienced coaches, the free clinic is open to boys and girls ages 7-13.

A donation of a canned food item is requested, but not required. Donated items will go to the Food Bank of North Alabama.

According to the city’s press release, in addition to working one-on-one with players, coaches will focus on team-building exercises and the importance of fair play. This event is open to all skill levels. To ensure players receive adequate instruction, the clinic will accept the first 75 boys and girls who register.

Parents and guardians can register online at https://huntsvilleal.seamlessdocs.com/f/4f5cmo5rp6zx.