Swarm, YMCA Of Greensboro Extend Partnership Through 2020-21

The Greensboro Swarm, the NBA G League affiliate of the Charlotte Hornets, today announced a two-season partnership extension with the YMCA of Greensboro. Beginning with the 2019 Greensboro Swarm Media Day being held at the Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA, the relationship will carry through the 2020-21 season.

“We are thrilled that the YMCA of Greensboro has continued their partnership with us for the next two seasons,” Swarm President Steve Swetoha said. “Our relationship with the YMCA is unique and we are fortunate to have a special relationship in the community. The Ball Kids program, for example, enables a group of YMCA kids to play a large role on game days, giving them the opportunity to engage with our basketball operations staff.”

“The Swarm has been a great partner over the last few years, and we see this contract extension as the continuation of some really meaningful work that we will do together,” said David Heggie, YMCA of Greensboro interim president and CEO. “Our organizations share a passion for building a stronger community through developing healthy and confident youth, and the new elements in our partnership underscore this commitment.”

New to the relationship are the YMCA of Greensboro’s inclusion in the annual NBA Cares’ Season of Giving Holiday Shopping Spree and hosting of Media Day at the Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA, the first time the organization has taken the event offsite. In addition to normal Media Day proceedings, the YMCA of Greensboro will manage a ‘Kid Reporter’ station, featuring a group of YMCA children who will get to interact and interview Swarm players.

Returning elements include the YMCA Ball Kid program, multiple Swarm player and coach community appearances, a Hornets Hoops basketball clinic and signage at the Fieldhouse at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex.

“The Swarm has helped preserve a strong basketball presence in our area, and we have seen firsthand the significant role that sports can play in boosting children’s confidence, teaching self-discipline and building relationships,” continued Heggie. “When you pair that with our focus on youth development and healthy living, a collaboration with the Swarm is a perfect fit. In addition, our inclusion in the NBA Cares’ Season of Giving Holiday Shopping Spree seamlessly aligns with our core value of ensuring that everyone – regardless of background or circumstance – has the opportunity to grow and thrive.”

Fans will notice assets of the partnership throughout the 24 home games (48 total) in 2019-20 and 2020-21. Additional tickets, public address announcements and in-game promotions will show the strength of the long-term relationship between the Swarm and YMCA of Greensboro.

“The Swarm and YMCA of Greensboro partnership centers around youth programming,” Swetoha explained. “Together, we can provide kids with meaningful opportunities that will carry them throughout their lives.”