The importance of decision-making in life was the message Ramon Garcia shared with Lincoln Middle School rising basketball players. Students who participate in former McCaskey basketball star Dustin Salisbury’s after-school basketball program were treated to a “real talk” with another former McCaskey basketball and track athlete Ramon Garcia, class of 2018.
Mr. Garcia shared how he overcame many adversities, including 456 placements while growing up in Reading before moving to Lancaster.
“I was in your shoes. I didn’t put forth the effort,” shared Ramon Garcia. “There’s no need to act tough, be gangster, or be disrespectful. Be you 100% of the time. You know wrong from right.”
He shared there’s more to life than basketball. You must have a plan and work hard. “Kobe didn’t get to where he was without practicing for hours each day,” he added. Ramon also reminded students not to be misled by musical lyrics.
United Way’s 211 saved his life by connecting him with Tabor, now Tenfold. He learned independent living and is now able to enjoy life while raising his 4-year-old daughter.