For years, Dr. Robin Foster aspired to create an event or program that would enable urban and suburban kids to come together to deal with the problems that divide them.

When she was approached by Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA, Foster discovered an opportunity.

The foundation, which consists mostly of retired professional athletes, usually sponsors events such as golf tournaments for charitable events. But with her son's influence, Foster figured a basketball tournament and sports clinics would work best for kids in the Richmond area.

As a result, the Richmond Midnight Basketball League and Laureus foundation collaborated to stage today's inaugural B-Ball Fundraiser at St. Christopher's School.

Former Olympic hurdles champion Edwin Moses will headline an all-star cast that also includes current New York Knicks guard Chris Duhon and former NBA stars John Starks, Johnny Newman, Nate Archibald, Bobby Dandridge and Gerald Henderson.

Dean Meminger, who played with New York and Atlanta, will conduct a 5-Spot Drill basic basketball fundamentals clinic.

"We knew we could use the athletes to bring the kids together," said Foster, director of VCU's Pediatric Emergency Services. "It's important to have an integrated event that helps the kids communicate and develop respect for one another.

"This is something we all hope will be an annual event. It's a start in trying to make some of the problems our kids have go away."

Janet Campbell, executive director of RMBL, said the event attracted athletes who volunteered their time. Most of the retired athletes participating in the event are members of Laureus - an organization that represents retired athletes and is supported by former South African president Nelson Mandela.

Laureus attracts people who share a belief in the power of sport to break down barriers. It seeks to inspire hope and positive change for children around the world using sport as a unique social vehicle.

It's exactly what Foster and Campbell were seeking.

"Some athletes called on their own," Campbell said. "They are very willing to participate with the kids.

"They understand this is a grass-root effort. It's a way to generate fellowship among kids who don't usually do a lot of things together."

The event includes life skills workshops, sports clinics (basketball and track and field) and an all-star basketball exhibition. Also, an evening gala is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Science Museum of Virginia.

There will be a double-elimination tournament, pairing teams with similar height and experience in four age groups: 8-9, 10-11, 12-14 and 15-17.

The entry fee is $30. Additional information is available at www.richmondmbl.org.

Also, there will be a benefit auction. The items include an autographed basketball by Jerry West and autographed jerseys of Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis and former Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino.
Contact Ralph N. Paulk at (804) 852-7851 or rpaulk@timesdispatch.com.