Third Annual Cops and Ballers tournament a success

The Cops and Ballers tournament is an annual afternoon-long series of three-on-three basketball games. These games feature city police officers playing side-by-side with some of New Haven’s most talented young athletes. The tournament began three years ago as a way to bridge the gap between the local community and law enforcement.
 
Martha Cedeno-Ross organized this year’s tournament in collaboration with the New Haven Police The 2021 Cops and Ballers event was a success.

Department and Project Longevity. The teams consist of both officers and community members. The Yale Police team that included Sergeant Michael Dominique took second prize. All the winning teams received trophies and other prizes.

“It’s a fun way to bridge the divide between cops and the community. In between free throws, we talk and listen to these local teenagers and their families. They get to know us, and we get to know them; it’s a win-win,” said Officer Cedeno-Ross.