WAGET is sponsoring a research project this summer and invites the public to offer questions for discussion and idea generation on this question:
“Can basketball bridge and build Wisconsin youth?”
Project Definitions and Vocabulary 
1 “Basketball” means organized, unorganized, teams, camps, any level, any skill, any form;
2 “Bridge” means bridging divisions, geography, ages, interests, genders, races, beliefs;
3 “Build” means building skills, character, maturity, reliability, hope;
4 “Wisconsin” means all 72 counties
5 “Youth” means males and females under 18.
The Problem and Opportunity
1 Wisconsin’s present — Some long simmering divisions in Milwaukee and between urban and non-urban communities may negatively affect the city’s and state’s future;
2 Wisconsin sports — We like sports; we support our youth in it; sports may be a way to unify and strengthen our communities;
3 Wisconsin youth – We want to help them develop good character and life/leadership skills;
4 Wisconsin’s future — Youth can help reinforce a stronger future for Wisconsin by building relationships and remaining here to grow communities.
Project Assumptions
1 Anyone of any age in the state may contribute ideas;
2 We have an interest in reaching out to all the current efforts; we will honor all that has been done and is being done in the city and state;
3 “What’s in it for me?” is a legitimate question;
4 There’s no limit to results if you don’t want credit;
5 Use lessons from non-sports models like Badger Boys/Girls State; Fox Connection
2017 Project Steps
1 June and July: Listen and research
2 August: Organize ideas and identify possible distinguished advisors
3 September: Conduct a day with distinguished advisors
4 October: Deliver a proof-of-concept report
Project Manager: Connor Weas is a 2017 Dean’s List graduate of Lawrence University and was academic all-conference, Lawrence Men’s Basketball Captain; sales associate, Champs Sports; tournament employee, NY2LA Sports; Junior Varsity Summer League Coach; Boys and Girls Club tutor; Hunger Task Force volunteer.
Everyone may comment to him or ask for a follow up contact: cweas34@gmail.com; text: 414-916-5527