The D-Fenders received a very warm welcome from the students of Alan B. Shepard Academy.

D-Fenders players Daniel Horton and Chet Mason led a talk on April 11th at Alan B. Shepard Academy in Hawthorne. The topic of discussion was the importance of being a good student and teammate.

Students enrolled at Alan B. Shepard Academy receive special attention from teachers and staff due to their struggles with behavior disorders. There are two types of behavior disorders, Internalizing and Externalizing. Students with Internalizing Behavior Disorder are characterized by shyness, withdrawal, or depression, whereas Externalizing Behavior Disorder is characterized by outward displays of defiance and aggression. In addition to the standard curriculum that any other student their age would receive, these students are also taught the importance being well behaved and how to better interact with others.

When asked by Chet Mason what they could do to be better students, staff members were pleased to hear that responses included “don’t kick,” “don’t curse,” and “listen to my teachers.” Another response to that question that Daniel Horton especially agreed with was “be respectful.” Horton went on to discuss how imperative it is to be respectful, not only in class and on the hardwood, but also in life and how something so simple as being respectful will help you succeed in life.

If your community group or organization would like to get a chance to meet the Los Angeles D-Fenders, contact the Community Relations Department at (310) 426-2231.