Coach "Hammer" Stevens - Douglass Panthers

Sure, it’s great to win a game but, in the world according to Coach Marvin “Hammer” Stevens, winning and losing take a back seat to the sheer fun of playing and the self-esteem kids develop through social interaction and academic achievement.  Retired from a career in basketball, he has been coaching The Children’s Aid Society’s girls’ basketball teams, including the trophy-winning Douglass Panthers, for 20+ years.  Thanks to his expert guidance and passion for the game, the teams represent New York City’s best in girls’ basketball.

Honor the Game

Hammer, along with his brother and founder of the youth basketball program, Kelsey Stevens, is dedicated to mentoring kids, encouraging them to strive for excellence and teaching them a keen sense of respect for themselves and others.  The results speak for themselves: three high school seniors on this year’s Panthers have won Division I scholarships, and a former player plays for the WNBA. Sport is an integral part of The Children’s Aid Society in New York, offering year-round action, serving boys and girls ages 5-18. It’s all about teamwork, fun – and honoring the game.