Coach Russell arrived in Durham at the Emily K Center loaded with equipment and enthusiasm and ready to unpack a boatload of fun for the 36 EKC campers who attended the Spring Break Activities Camp. Days were filled with sports activities, board games, movies, smoothies, and much fun and laughter. This year marks the third year that loyal Emily K Center friend, Russell Newman, conducted the camp. “This is a special place and the students are special kids. I know that this kind of sports camp can have a positive influence on them, but really, I just wanted to come and spoil the kids,” laughed Russell.


The history of Coach Russell’s relationship with the Emily K Center is an interesting one. Russell met Coach K nine years ago when his son, Scott, attended a basketball camp on the Duke campus. Coach Russell remembers sensing instantly that Coach K was a uniquely special person, beyond his basketball persona. Several years later while attending the K Academy, Coach Russell visited the Emily K Center. “It was evident to me from the moment I walked in that the Emily K Center was a wonderful place,” said Coach Russell. “I met Adam (the EKC Executive Director) and the rest of the staff and immediately I started to think about how I could help them in their mission.” Having worked with kids for many years, and knowing that sports can be such a positive influence in the lives of young people, Coach Russell offered to host an on-site, free camp for the EKC students during their break from school. Year after year he has increased his commitment to the Center. This year the Spring Break Camp encompassed the entire week. Friends of Coach Russell’s from across the country, including coaches Ian, Jackie, Phil, and Jose and video-director Rob, donated their vacation time and flew in to lend a hand. Local volunteers also provide much needed support. Scotty, Ronald and Javier, as well as several employees from the marketing solutions corporation, Bronto Software, also volunteered to help in the effort of day-after-day fun.

The days began at 9 am with warm ups and then campers from first through eighth grade played basketball, tennis, dodge ball and kickball. Morning snacks of smoothies were followed by more sports and then, board games, movies and another session back in the gym for more sports. All the campers agreed that it was one of the best things they did all year. As for Coach Russell, he sees it a bit differently. “I always arrive here with the idea that I will have a chance to do something for the students and I leave having been the beneficiary. Knowing the kids at the Emily K Center has made my life better,” said Coach Russell.