Organizing and running a successful Jr. Magic program is a total team effort. That's why the Site Supervisor with Orange County Parks and Recreation’s South Econ location, Deli Gonzalez, wanted members of her staff to pitch in. In this OMYBA Spotlight we speak with the team that helps make this Jr. Magic league so special.
Would you each mind giving us a little background about yourselves? (e.g. where are you from, did you participate in youth sports growing up, how long you've been with OCPR)
Deli Gonzalez: I have been with Orange County Parks and Recreation for over five years. I’m originally from Virginia and was very involved with youth sports growing up.
Chris Aguirre: I’m from New York but have been with OCPR for 11 years. I’ve been involved with youth sports throughout my entire life.
Jazlyn Welch: I’m originally from Long Island, New York and participated in gymnastics as a kid. I’ve been with OCPR for three years.
Jazmyne Welch: I’ve been with OCPR for just under four years. Growing up my mom was a big advocate for participation in youth sports, so it was certainly a part of my childhood.
Kevin Monoghan: As a child I played both basketball and football for 10 years. I’m a retired Navy veteran from Connecticut and have been working with OCPR for six years.
Danny Liriano: I grew up playing basketball and football in New York. I’ve been with OCPR for four years.
How long have you been involved with youth sports?
Most of the staff: My entire life
KM: I was a basketball coach for 10 years and have been a scorekeeper with our Jr. Magic program for six years.
When are your leagues hosted and how many participants do you typically have during each season?
DG: Our leagues take place during fall and winter and we have roughly 250 kids each season.
What makes the Orange County Parks & Recreation experience so special for a child?
DG: It gives any child, regardless of skill or age, the ability to experience something different for the first time. Our leagues give the participants a dream and/ or goal to aspire to in life. Lastly, we provide a safe environment for our participants while offering support and encouragement.
KM: Our participants also experience the value of teamwork while learning basketball skills and fundamentals.
What is the best part of your respective role with South Econ and the Jr. Magic program?
DG: My favorite part is watching both my staff and our participants bond and grow together.
Jazmyne: I love seeing participants from past programs try something new and exciting.
CA: I consider it an honor and privilege to run this program. Not only is it fun and exciting for our participants, it is fun and exciting for me too!
Tell us about your favorite memories from hosting a Jr. Magic league.
DG: I have so many fond memories of seeing children fall in love with the sport of basketball. It’s so special to see them aspire to be something greater as they build confidence and grow both in basketball and in their personal lives.
CA: Watching the skill level improve as well as their overall game. Teaching sportsmanship and teamwork are memories that I'll always hold dearly.
Who is your favorite Magic player, current and/or past?
Jazmyne: Mo Bamba
KM: Jameer Nelson. He was a great team player and an outstanding ambassador for the city of Orlando.
DL: Jonathan Isaac
CA: Shaq!
Thanksgiving is right around the corner. What is your favorite aspect of the holiday- family, food or football?
DG: I love to go back to Virginia to see the seasons change and hang out with my family.
Jazmyne: I love the food but also need to make sure I have enough rest to go early morning shopping the next day.
Jazlyn: I personally enjoy the spontaneity of spending time with different members of my friends and family each year. It’s nice to mix things up each Thanksgiving.
DL: I’d put family and friends first, but food is a close second.
KM: Family, turkey, football and pie = the four stages of happiness.
CA: All of the above!