WHITE PLAINS, NY — At a recent reception, many friends and supporters of the New Rochelle Basketball Association gathered to honor its founder and president, New Rochelle’s own Patrick L. Vaccaro, who recently stepped down after a very successful tenure as the Managing Partner of Jackson Lewis LLP, one of the nation’s largest law firms. Now lead by Mr. Vaccaro’s successor, Vincent Cino, Jackson Lewis sponsored the event.
“Pat Vaccaro Night” was a celebration of Mr. Vaccaro’s installation into the New Rochelle High School Wall of Distinguished Alumni. In addition to a replica of the plaque on the High School’s Wall, Mr. Vaccaro received presentations from County Executive Rob Astorino, County Legislators Jim Maisano and Sheila Marcotte and New Rochelle Councilman Lou Trangucci.
New Rochelle Youth Bureau Executive Director (and NRBA Vice President) Kelly Johnson spoke about Mr. Vaccaro’s contributions to New Rochelle’s youth and introduced “success stories” including NRHS graduates NFL safety Courtney Greene and Tim McKnight, who represented Steiner Sports in conducting a silent auction of sports memorabilia.
Also present was another New Rochelle “success story” – NRHS basketball star, NRBA Board Member (and boys basketball coach) Rasaun “Crabby” Young. After Coach Young thanked Mr. Vaccaro for his commitment to the community, NRHS Athletic Director Steve Young presented Mr. Vaccaro with a replica of his Wall of Distinguished Alumni plaque.
In a positive environment nourished by New Rochelle’s rich diversity, the NRBA was founded in 2011 with the purpose of taking New Rochelle basketball to the “next level.” The NRBA uses basketball as a means of inspiring our youth, especially the neediest, to reach their full potential – as players and people. Education is a key component.
The NRBA provides academic and athletic support to each child from the time they enter the program as Junior Huguenots in grade school throughout High School, and helps players find the post-secondary educational choice that is right for them.