Outreach Basketball League Has Heavy Impact in South Cobb Community

Family Life Restoration Center is a spiritual nonprofit organization that specializes in educating and restoring God's families. Although their thumbprint is providing marriage counseling to couples, they also find ways to positively create a sense of structure for the youth, by creating a youth challenge program for at risk kids, as well as participating in the Elizabeth Baptist Church Outreach League. 

The organization's involvement in this outreach league serves as a mentoring program that not only draws the youth, but also helps shape their character through positive reinforcement and bible study.

Founder and President Luther Washington, who has been involved with the league for the past four years, believes the goal of this organization is to teach the basic fundamentals of basketball, create spiritual growth, promote good sportsmanship and teamwork and create a safe atmosphere to play basketball. This ministry also helps impart career and life skills for young men as they prepare for life after high school. 

"Before the season started, we had eight players that gave their life to Christ," said Washington. "I felt like those were eight kids we just snatched away from Satan's hands."

Adding a third team this year, the center sponsors three Family Life Restoration Soldiers teams (Team Blue, White and Gold) comprised of high school students from , , McEachern, Woodward Academy and Osborne as well as those who didn't compete on their high school teams. Along with learning basketball skills, the league serves as an extended family to these young men.

"I became friends with the president, Mr. Luther, and he was telling me how the outreach program can be a good way to help me become a better Christian and better basketball player at the same time," said point guard Alvin Hayes of Team White. "I just gave it a try. This my second year and I love it."

After the season is over, the 12 best players are selected from the three teams to compete on the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball circuit during the summer. During their second year of existence, the Soldiers went undefeated in AAU competition. Past players have been able to get valuable life experiences and life-altering recognition during their basketball travels.

"Four of our players over the last three years have received college scholarships during their play on the AAU circuit," said Washington. "The kids enjoy the experience of hitting the road and playing in front of college scouts."

All six of the coaches for the teams, two to each team, have been honored participants since the inception of this league and praise Washington's commitment to enriching as well as uplifting the youth.

"First of all, it's all about the kids, especially for our young black men. We have to set the standard so they can become good citizens in Christ," said Coach James Williams of Team White.  "I just want to thank Mr. Luther for allowing me to be a part of this league he started as we look to build the boys up for the future with our guidance."