By REBECCA SAVEDOW
Times Herald Staff

NORRISTOWN — Greater Norristown PAL participants learned basketball techniques straight from the source on Thursday.

At the 76ers one-day basketball clinic, children spent time with former NBA player World B. Free and his coaching staff.

Kids learned basic skills like shooting and defending, but were exposed to lifestyle habits, too. “We bring basketball, speeches about drugs, violence, education and the importance of staying away from guns. Basketball is just a little vehicle we use just to try to get a big message out,” said Free.

The camps are in the 15th year of operation and have grown from four to 44. The camps are so popular that Free has had to turn people away.

“I certainly wanted to bring the Sixers here because it is not something we do every day. Bringing them here for a one-day event is something special — it’s not the norm here in Norristown,” said GNPAL Program Director, Ken Fennal.

Fennal said his mission since he took over as Program Director in 2009 is to enhance existing programs and create new ones. All activities at the PAL are aimed towards the advancement of youth in physical, emotional and mental development.