Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Friday, January 08, 2010

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"Moo Moo" Evans of the Harlem Globetrotters shared the "CHEER for Character" program at Rosa Parks Elementary. He used a camouflage basketball as a tribute to members of the armed services.

“Moo Moo” Evans, a player with the Harlem Globetrotters, visited Rosa Parks Elementary to share the organization’s “CHEER for Character” program and promote their upcoming basketball game at Rupp Arena.

He urged students to cultivate the following traits as they interact with their parents, teachers and friends:

• C for cooperation
• H for healthy minds and bodies
• E for effort
• E for enthusiasm
• R for responsibility

“We try to give the kids a positive message,” said Evans, a Tennessee native and Troy University graduate, whose emphasis always harkened back to the importance of school. “To be productive, you have to have your education first, and everything else will fall in place.”

His message struck a chord with fifth-grader Madison Calhoon.

“I liked how he encouraged kids to be healthy and stay fit and be responsible. He really inspired me with his words,” Madison said after the 45-minute program in the gym.

Evans led students through the Globetrotters’ five CHEER elements, first gathering input from the crowd and then elaborating, often using examples from his own life. “If I can get through those same obstacles, they can, too,” he said.

For instance, he talked about the importance of respecting his basketball coach and advised the children to do what their parents and teachers ask of them. “They sacrifice for you each and every day,” Evans said. “Listen to the people who are trying to keep you on the right track.”

He also mentioned how the Globetrotters literally perform around the world, so they are constantly introduced to interesting places and people in other cultures. “Read something new every day, and try to stimulate your mind to learn something new,” he told the youngsters as he strode around the court. As for exercise, Evans said, “Go outside for 60 minutes a day and take care of yourself.”

He encouraged the Rosa Parks students to do their best, whether on the playing field or in school. “Always, always give 200 percent. Give it all you’ve got,” he said, stressing that success in life begins in the classroom.

The “E” for enthusiasm was not lost on this crowd as Evans touted one of the best things about being a Globetrotter – “We’re always smiling, and we’re always having fun!” He also stressed displaying good sportsmanship and surrounding oneself with positive people.

Finally came the “R” in CHEER, for responsibility. The kids had the right idea, shouting out suggestions like “Taking care of your things” and “Doing what you’re supposed to do.”

Evans praised them but also asked them to step up as they mature. “Be accountable for your own actions. Own up to your responsibilities,” he said, suggesting they not only keep their bedrooms clean but also offer to do extra chores at home.

Of course, no visit by a Harlem Globetrotter is complete without a ball-handling demonstration. So Evans called up a handful of volunteers and taught them a few tricks – pitting the boys against the girls, to the delight of the crowd. Responding to their chants, he also delivered a dunk.

As fifth-grader Brady Barrow summed up the day: “That was really cool!”