Globetrotter Connects with Students

Globetrotter Connects with Students

L to R: Optimist Club Member Sue Brandenburg, School Resource Officer John Vickery, Assistant Chief of Police Justin Daale, Melvin Adams, Optimist Club Member Mike Baas, Officer Steve Konz, and Optimist Club Member Wayne Heien.
Melvin Adams, a former team captain of the Harlem Globetrotters and motivational speaker, visited Le Mars Community Middle School and Gehlen Catholic Schools Thursday to speak with students. The event was hosted by Le Mars D.A.R.E and the Optimist Club of Le Mars.
According to the basketball star’s website, “Melvin Adams knows firsthand how to achieve great things despite challenging circumstances. Even though he was only 5’8″, he became a two-time NCAA All-American basketball player and the team captain of the World Famous Harlem Globetrotters. As an underdog who went on to become a professional basketball player, Melvin asks audiences, “Imagine what you can do?” Today, he encourages and entertains audiences and demonstrates how they can achieve their dreams no matter the circumstances they face.”
Adams talked to the kids about different motivational topics, including encouraging kids to follow their dreams and to be resilient. “Dont Quit” was a big message too for the kids. He says, everyday is a new day to press restart, and he encouraged kids to make the world a better place. He told stories about his hardships and how he rose to his career and life.
Most students were glued to him during the event, with some kids even on the edge of their seats. Adams made kids laugh a lot, and at many points, the buildings erupted in laughter. He connected with the students, and poked fun at teachers and staff. He also brought students up to toss around the basketball and to show off his basketball tricks.