Wizards talk basketball and bullying in Riverhead

Dwayne “Swoop” Simpson of the Harlem Wizards elicited excited screams from students at Riley Avenue Elementary School Thursday when he grabbed a teacher who was standing along the wall and tangoed with her across the gymnasium.

Simpson toured Riverhead’s middle and elementary schools to promote a Nov. 14 trick basketball game at Riverhead High School featuring the Wizards and teachers from the district.

He also spoke about bullying.

“The Harlem Wizards, we are an anti-bullying organization,” Simpson said after the laughter quieted. The children watched attentively.

“Treat people the way you want to be treated yourselves…We all are beautiful, unique individuals. Hold yourselves in the highest regard and have respect for others.”

Simpson, a former Harlem Globetrotter who’s been giving presentations at schools for 12 years, said he speaks to administrators to determine what issues they see in their schools. He said the showmanship aspect fits his personality and he loves the opportunity to be a role model for kids.

“Part of our respect theme is that you treat people equally,” he said.

Simpson’s personality commanded the cafeteria at Riverhead Middle School, where he mixed with students at lunchtime who erupted in laughter wherever he stopped to talk, one group breaking out in song with him.

His team’s game will feature similar antics, delivering as much comedy as basketball prowess. The event is a fundraiser organized by high school teacher Greg Wallace to benefit the Riverhead Central Faculty Association scholarship for high school seniors. The district hopes to raise awareness about the scholarship, said teacher Brian Cunningham.

“This kind of thing creates a buzz,” Cunningham said.

RiverheadLOCAL photos by Micah Danney