Former General Manager of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Milt Newton, visited 7 Virgin Islands schools this week to share the story of his journey from St. Thomas to a successful career in the NBA.
Mr. Newton spoke with student athletes about the importance of setting goals and persevering.
“Sports is a microcosm of life and can be used as a vehicle to prepare us for life’s problems,” he told them. “Hope and believe in yourself. Seek a mentor who can help guide you along your path. Don’t be afraid to come back to the Virgin Islands and share your knowledge and uplift others.”
He emphasized that learning how to become a good athlete meant learning that sports and books go hand-in-hand.
Mr. Newton and his wife Shalaun are the cofounders of the Emerald Gems Foundation which, in addition to hosting motivational discussions with the territory’s youth, operates annual basketball camps and clinics. More information about the 2016 summer clinics is now available on the foundation’s website.
Last year the Bordeaux basketball court on St. Thomas was rededicated and named in Mr. Newton’s honor at an event attended by Governor Kenneth Mapp, who expressed his appreciation for Mr. Newton’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands.
This week’s school visits were coordinated by the Office of the Governor and the Office of Senator Clifford Graham. Mr. Newton concluded his school visits Friday.
Tags: milton newton, schools, students, us virgin islands, usvi
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