The Fontana Wildcats Bless Their New Home

Pastor Chuck Henderson of Relevant Church Inland Empire (www.RelevantFontana.com) shares a word from a Bible passage in Joshua 6 with the Wildcat families after joining Coach Kenny and the team in a prayer walk around the facility 7 times.

Several Wildcat families appeared before the public at a recent City Council meeting to express their concerns and frustrations about the city not providing a place for basketball clubs to practice and play like they do with others sports like soccer and football.  The Fontana Wildcats, who compete both locally and nationally each year with several championships to its credit, has struggled to find a consistent, cost -effective solution to its practice and training needs; often looking to neighboring cities like Colton, Bloomington, Rancho Cucamonga and Jurupa Valley for space.

This has caused a strain on the families travel-wise and has been a major inconvenience for the program, who works diligently to keep its cost low for families with limited resources to participate.  Coaches Kenny and Leslie Wright have often “footed to the bill” for families in need to participate; even assisting with travel and lodging to out-of-town tournaments.

Unlike many AAU Travel Team programs, the Fontana Wildcats stand apart.  Coaches Kenny and Leslie consider their program as a ministry unto the Lord.  All kids are welcome to participate regardless of skill level; even those with special needs.  The program has often had kids who were “on the spectrum” or who have struggled with behavior issues.  As long as you are willing to work hard, keep a good attitude and respect the game, you are welcome!

Even with all this, the Fontana Wildcats are a Championship level program, with many tournament wins on multiple level…including a National Title!

Mayor Aquanetta Warren and the City Council responded favorably to the pleas of the Wildcat family and opened up the newly renovated Multipurpose Dome at Jack Bulik Park located at 16581 Filbert Ave., Fontana, CA 92335.  The new practice/training times are Fridays from 6:00pm – 8:00pm and Saturdays 8:00am – 10:00am.  For more information, call 909.368.6134.