Memphis, TN – The battle of the generations unfolded at this week’s basketball camp hosted at Trezevant High School by the Memphis Shelby County Interscholastic Athletic Association (MSCIAA).
Elementary-aged students at basketball camp.Among the energetic coaching staff was Roderick Mason, camp facilitator and staff member at Manassas High School. Mason kept the energy high on the court, using a microphone to engage players during agility drills. He reminded them, “If my eyes don’t see your eyes, you’re in for a surprise,” underscoring the importance of focus and connection.
Coach Roderick Mason energizing the basketball campers.Several veteran coaches at the camp wore pins honoring Clarence Jones, fondly known as “Coach CJ,” who died in September 2024. Jones dedicated 40 years to coaching and teaching with Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), including 28 years at Trezevant. His career also included Kingsbury, Frayser, Fairley, and the now-closed Messick High School.
The pin worn by the coaching staff in honor of Clarence “Coach CJ” Jones.“It’s bittersweet being at camp without him,” said Glen Powell, an Athletic Director with MSCIAA. Coach Mason added, “We are dedicating this camp to him.”
Also among the seasoned staff was Nathaniel Crawford, who brings 16 years of experience to the court. He currently coaches at Hamilton K-8 and has been involved with Shelby Metro over 30 years. Crawford’s son, a former camp participant and graduate of Central High School, is now a 30-year-old teacher in Georgia – a testament to the camp’s long-standing impact on both athletic and whole-child development.
Gwen Powell, MSCIAA Athletic Director, shared insights into the broader summer programming. She noted that the largest camps are cheer and volleyball. “Last year, we had to cap the cheer camp at 309 participants in under 90 minutes,” she recalled. Although participation in Shelby Metro’s summer programs has declined from 4,600 students to about half of that number due to expanded camp offerings elsewhere, Powell emphasized the continued value: “It’s good that our kids have a safe, structured environment and aren’t in the streets or in front of a screen.”
Coaches unanimously agreed that the most rewarding aspect of the camp is creating a safe and welcoming space for students to grow and compete.
This week’s basketball camp concludes on Friday, June 13. Four additional basketball camps are scheduled this summer. Dates and locations can be found here.
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