Stoughton Summer Basketball Camp Gets Visit From Police Dog

STOUGHTON, MA — Teamwork, looking out for one another, and leading by example —these are the qualities Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey has tried to establish in his nine years organizing Stoughton's youth basketball camp. The camp for students in grades 3 through 8 runs every February and summer vacation and not only teaches kids about basketball, but also tries to create a space for kids to have positive role models in their own community.

Thursday was an example of the camp doing just that by inviting Deputy Sheriff Michael Monaghan and his K-9 unit Randy, an 82-pound Labrador, came to the camp for a talk about teamwork, dedication and drug safety.

The camp also tried to have the basketball drills connect to real life lessons outside the gym.During the exercises coaches Jenna Clark and Joe Bunce-Grenon use the drills as away to teach kids that details matter.

"Pay attention to the details," Bunce-Grenon said during a drill on the mechanics of shooting lay-ups with your weak hand. "Just like in life. You have a job, you’ve got to pay attention to the details of what you have to do."

Morrisey, who funds most of the program for the Stoughton Recreation Department with money forfeited during criminal prosecutions., reiterated Bruce-Gennon's message.

"Every one of the lessons we are giving for success on the basketball court applies to success in school and in life ...," "The long game of public safety and security involves keeping communities strong and giving kids the support and knowledge they need Positive opportunities, for children and adults, help keep communities safe and strong."