Harlem Wizards playing in Yuma to raise funds for Otondo Elementary

Game set for Saturday in Castle Dome gym

This week in the Castle Dome Middle School gym, teachers, military and law enforcement officers are conditioning for their big game against the Harlem Wizards on Saturday.

Formed in 1962, the Wizards’ three show units crisscross the country and beyond to deliver “Broadway-style” entertainment on the basketball court while helping raise funds for schools and nonprofits. Saturday’s game – a fundraiser for Otondo Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) – chronicles the team’s first appearance in Yuma.

“This is the first time the school – and even the town – has done something this big,” said PTO President Minerva Whittaker. “These are really inspired players redirecting kids to a positive environment through their entertainment.”

Split into four quarters, the game will feature Otondo teachers in the first and last, and local first responders, border patrol and customs officers in the second; according to the teams’ coach Kim Tillou, things start to get serious in the third quarter, so they’ve stacked that roster with capable Marines.

“We’re just going to go out there, have fun and leave it at that,” he said. “Some of our players have never played ball before, so it’s all about entertaining the crowds and keeping a good sense of humor. But the kids will love watching their teachers play and getting to see them in a different light.”

According to teachers, excitement amongst the students is already surging. On Thursday, the Wizards will be visiting classrooms at Otondo, Sunrise, Desert Mesa and Dorothy

Hall Elementary and Castle Dome Middle Schools to talk to students about the importance of embodying good character.

Saturday’s game will commence at 6 p.m. in the Castle Dome Middle School gym.

Gameday snacks will be on-hand at the concession stand, with all proceeds going to Otondo’s parent teacher organization (PTO). Their goal is to raise $10,000 to fund special education playground equipment and other PTO projects. A Wizards souvenir shop will be set up as well, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the PTO.

“It’s a different way of fundraising that brings the community and families together,” PTO treasurer Donna Shepherd said.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at harlemwizards.thundertix.com as well as at the door on the night of the game.