This is the last week of registration for the 19th annual Blacktop Youth Basketball League, called by some "The cradle of future Northern Kentucky high school hoops stars."

 

More than 500 teams and thousands for future high school players from nearly every school in the area have polished their skills in the unique setting of Silver Lake Park in Erlanger's outdoor courts. Many former high school players still remember their Blacktop League days as, "My favorite league," because of the chance to play different competition in an environment offered only once a year. A sample of 20 Blacktop League alums from other schools who have gone on to great things in high school and college include:

 

Justin Doellman (Ryle, Xavier) Ross Neltner (Highlands, Mr Basketball, LSU/Vandy) Mike Brock (Simon Kenton, Eastern Ky.)

Brenden Stowers (Simon Kenton, NKU) Brennan Votel (CovCath, Penn) Mike Gabbard (Boone County, Western Ky.)

Corey Sorrell (Holy Cross, NKU) Nick Simpson (Highlands, North Carolina A&T) David McFarland (Boone County, NKU)

Ryan Wilson (Lloyd, Georgetown) Stephen McFarland (Boone County, Georgetown) Brian Lewin (CovCath, NKU)

Matt Otte (St. Henry, Bellermine) Chris Thompson (Scott, Indianapolis) Jimmy Ryan (Holy Cross, NKU)

Matt Roberts (Moeller, The Citadel) Kevin Rinehart (Campbell County, NKU) Matt Neistheide (CovCath, Centre)

Keaton Belcher (Pendleton County, Belmont) Kellen Smith (Scott, Saginaw Valley St.)

 

Many other former Blacktop players have had all-conference and all-region honors and gone on to play collegiately all over the country. The league is widely, endorsed by area high school coaches, many of whom have participated or had children play in the league over the years.

 

"The Blacktop League continues to be an outstanding platform for youth basketball teams, both boy's and girl's, to develop their fundamentals and teamwork during the early fall. A safe and unique outdoor environment provides a setting that many players have not experienced. The league is well administered and the officiating is quality. Both my sons and daughters have had many enjoyable experiences during the 20 years of the league's existence. I would strongly encourage playing in this league to any young player or team looking to improve their skills and seeking an outstanding experience," Dr. Scott Eaton, athletic director, Northern Kentucky University.

"The Blacktop League has done an oustanding job of allowing many kids to play in an competitive environment. I have been fortunate to have many players, including my own son, who have reaped the benefits from playing in the Blacktop League." Dave Faust, head coach St. Henry High School.

 

"The Blacktop League is a great opportunity for aspiring basketball players to play prior to school ball starting and to sharpen their skills to get ready for try-outs for their school team. Being, a former ref in the league, I know you are going to play great competition to get you ready for the school season and that's what it's all about. The Blacktop League is the place to be in the fall." Ken Chevalier, head coach Dixie Heights High School.

"As I coach I try to encourage as many of our potential players as possible to play in the blacktop league. It's and excellent prelude to the school ball season. The level of competition can help any player. All of our top players have participated in the blacktop league." Mike Code, head coach Brossart High School.

The league is open to boys and girls teams entering grades 3 through 9. A 10 game season begins Aug. 15 and runs through Oct. 6. League play is on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights, with plenty of flexibility for soccer and football conflicts. Silver Lake Park is located just minutes from I-75 and I-275 in Erlanger. For full details and registration information contact Kevin Bundy, at 859-653-8941 or at [email protected]. Individual registrations are also accepted.

 

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You forgot about my name on the list.

 

I remember Yancy Gates partook at one point.

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