As of December 5th, basketball is finally back after a four-year hiatus due to COVID-19. Like many parts of our life that we took for granted, the sound of squeaking feet and cheering students has returned to P.S./I.S. 66 here in Canarsie. Thanks to newly installed Principal Krystle Charlemagne and a generous Parent Association, the Canarsie Blue Jays have rejoined the NYCMSBL and will start their 2023-2024 season against M.S. 581.
Students are overjoyed that varsity basketball has resumed in the school. Eighth-grader and team Captain Andy Arris said, “We feel grateful that the basketball team has come back to 66 because it was hard times during COVID, and many kids had difficulties. We look forward to competing for and winning the school championship this season.” Eighth grade guard Isaiah Giles said, “We have a great opportunity to have a team again, and we are going to try and win a championship for the school and Coach Weiss.”
Principal Charlemagne said, “The revival of the Canarsie Blue Jays basketball team at P.S./I.S. 66K is more than just a return to sports; it represents the resilience and unity of our school community in overcoming challenges. Witnessing our students’ enthusiasm and determination to excel both on and off the court is a testament to the enduring spirit of Canarsie. We are immensely proud to support their athletic and personal growth, celebrating each dribble and dunk as a step toward our collective triumph.”
“We also want to thank the Parent Association Executive Board, President Maria Rivera, Vice-President Fran Diaz, Treasurer Rajini D. Ramsukh and Parent Coordinator Ms. Brown for helping organize our doughnut sale to help raise funds to order jerseys this year,” said student Aurian Polius. In addition, the Parent Association purchased a new scoreboard for the gym which will allow the school to host home games this season.
The Canarsie Blue Jays Varsity basketball team is made up of 7th and 8th grade students from P.S./I.S. 66. They are:
Landon Hayes
Andy Arris
Takai Campbell
Savion Gibbs
Khaydin Rodrigues
Jayden Robinson
Jaden Ellis
Jacob Clarke
Veyonte Borden
Zachary Malcolm
Jahmar James
Levi Ridgeway
Ben Ridgeway
Isaiah Giles
Togamar Wilson
Jarred Lissade
Darryl Brisbon
Aurian Polius
Head Coach Seth Weiss
Assistant Coach Nasier McKenzie
