Philadelphia 76ers Partner with Virtua

On Mar 2, 2015

The Philadelphia 76ers today announced a community-focused partnership with Virtua, a healthcare provider in South Jersey, which includes programming designed to improve basketball skills and overall wellness for children throughout the City of Camden and surrounding South Jersey region. The multi-year partnership makes Virtua the Official New Jersey Community Health Partner of the 76ers.

Through the partnership, the Sixers and Virtua will create the team’s first-ever Camden Youth Basketball Clinic, presented by Virtua, an annual, three-day summer clinic for Camden youth (dates, times, location and complete details for Summer 2015 to be announced). In addition to basketball skills training and development, the clinic will include programming centered on physical fitness, nutrition and overall wellness. The Camden Youth Basketball Clinic will take place at the team’s new Training Complex in Camden following its construction and opening.

The organizations will also develop the Sixers Academy of Southern New Jersey, an education program focused on teaching healthy eating habits, the importance of fitness and reading skills. Sixers Academy of Southern New Jersey programming – the first of its kind hosted by the team – will be presented to six South Jersey elementary and middle schools each year of the partnership, and will feature Virtua fitness and nutrition experts as well as Sixers players and staff.

“As we continue to move forward with plans for our new Training Complex, we recognize the importance of integrating ourselves into the fabric of the Camden community, and Virtua will be a valuable partner in those efforts,” said Sixers Chief Executive Officer Scott O’Neil. “Together, we have created programming that will provide a solid foundation for the city and South Jersey’s youth, teaching them life skills both in the classroom and on the court through basketball while providing them with a safe place to learn and play.”

“This partnership is about raising healthy kids in both body and mind,” said Virtua President and CEO, Richard P. Miller. “Children look up to athletes as role models and partnering with the Sixers helps us convey the importance of good nutrition, adopting healthy habits, and keeping fit and active. Virtua has made a major commitment to the community at its Camden Health Center offering emergency and primary care, mental health programs for children and other outpatient services. We are very pleased to partner in this important endeavor.”

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