Piper’s Pals Provides Opportunity for Youth with Disabilities to Play Youth Basketball
Burbank, CA (January 6, 2024) – On Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., the Parks and Recreation Department (Department) invites families, friends, and community members to celebrate the first season of Piper’s Pals in the Youth Basketball League. This free event, open to the public, will take place at the Olive Recreation Center, located at 1111 West Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91506.
In partnership with the Youth Sports Section, Piper’s Pals, led by Tiffany Nelson, provides a unique opportunity for players with disabilities to participate in a full season of the Youth Basketball League. This program is a groundbreaking effort that promotes “Play Equity,” the belief that every child—regardless of socioeconomic status, gender, or physical and mental ability—deserves access to sports and recreational activities. The Sports Office embraces the principle that physical activity is vital to children's health, fitness, well-being, and self-esteem.
Before the games begin, the Department will hold a brief ceremony to recognize Piper’s Pals, their families, and the coaches who made this program possible. Piper’s Pals games are non-competitive, emphasizing fun, teamwork, and providing meaningful experiences for all participants. Throughout the season, teams from all divisions will have the opportunity to play alongside and against Piper’s Pals, fostering camaraderie and understanding.
“If you want to be inspired and witness the power of compassion and inclusion, please join us to cheer on our special needs team, ‘Piper’s Pals’, and their buddies, the ‘Wolfpack’, as they take the court,” said Tiffany Nelson, head coach and 2016 Burbank Walk of Fame Inductee.
“The City of Burbank is deeply grateful to Tiffany Nelson for her years of service in adaptive sports, which will continue to ensure that every child in Burbank—regardless of ability—can enjoy the benefits of wearing a jersey and participating in sports,” said Marisa Garcia, Parks and Recreation Department Director.
More information on Youth Sports can be found at www.burbankca.gov/web/parks-recreation/youth-sports or by calling 818-238-5330.