Montclair Women Shoot Hoops, Build Community

Were you one of those inspired by the U.S. women's basketball team, which won its fifth straight gold medal at the Olympics in London earlier this month?

If so, there's a chance for you to hone your skills—or to learn the sport for the first time—right here in Montclair.

Throughout the summer, about a dozen women have been playing non-competitive basketball at Tuers Park as part of an effort to have fun, get exercise, and enjoy the camaraderie of people of all ages, abilities, and histories.

Players include some real professionals from Europe, as well as former college and high school players from every age group. Others, like Susan Goldstein, are just learning.

“The experienced women are so generous with advice, and so patient with us newbies," Goldstein said. "Our 'honorary' member is Adam Wade, known in Montclair for his musical performances at such places as Trumpets. Little does his audience know that he was the captain of his college basketball team in 1952."

After a rewarding summer, the group now plans to continue its basketball habit every Thursday night from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. starting Sept. 6 at the  at 25 Park Street—and is looking for others to join the fun.

“We are always looking forward to having other women join us. All skill levels are welcome. The idea is to have fun!” said Alice Freund, one of the organizers.

Another player, Melanie Urdang, admitted that the group will miss hanging out together in backyards after games at Tuers Park.

"But we'll find other ways to continue getting to know each other," she said. "It's not only about basketball but also about maintaining the Montclair spirit of community."

For more information, contact the YMCA at 973-744-3400.

Freund said you do have to be a YMCA member to participate but that you don't have to live in Montclair.

"We don't have a name. It's an informal group," she said. "There were about 10 people that came regularly but not each week."