By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Grafton – The Grafton Police Association/Alliance will be hosting a basketball game Thursday, May 7, as a team of Grafton police officers and other local athletes face off against the New England Patriots All- Stars. The game will be held at Grafton High School, 24 Providence Road, starting at 7 p.m.
This is the 16th time the Alliance has held this game. Originally the Grafton team was composed of members of the town’s police department, according to Patrolman James Crosby, who is helping to organize the event. Over the past few years, the team has evolved to also include student-athletes from Grafton High School, Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School and The Grafton Job Corps., to give it a truly community feel.
“The kids are thrilled to share the court with professional athletes and we are equally as thrilled to provide the opportunity,” Crosby said.
The game is the primary fundraiser for the Alliance with monies raised going back into the community to support local groups and organizations.
“In the past years the Grafton Police Alliance has awarded more than $25,000 in academic scholarships to graduating Grafton High School students, supported and sponsored local youth sports teams, donated to local families displaced by fire and raised funds for our local community Food Bank,” Crosby said.
“[It] also has supported recognized national charities such as the American Red Cross and the Wounded Warrior Project,” he added. “It is only through the generous donations from our citizens and local businesses that permit the Grafton Police Alliance to fund these valued causes.
We are grateful for the support we receive from the community and we are looking forward to another entertaining game this year. “
Tickets for the event are $10 each and are available at the Grafton Police Department, 28 Providence Road or at the door the night of the event.