As part of “Diversity Week” at the end of March, the famous Harlem Globetrotters visited the Rollikids in Cologne. The Rollikids are a subgroup of the German Wheelchair Association, who has the goal to promote wheelchair sports in Germany. The association is supported by “Stiftung RTL – Wir helfen Kindern”. The foundation just recently provided funds for urgently needed wheelchairs that give the children greater mobility and enable participation. The visit by the basketball players from the U.S. was the second highlight for the Rollikids.
The Harlem Globetrotters are a show basketball team that tours around the world. This year, the legendary team is celebrating its 100th anniversary. More than 148 million viewers from 123 countries have seen their live show to date – and now the Rollikids were thrilled when three players of the seven-strong team paid them a visit. “Sweet” Lou Dunbar, “Spice” Sidney, and “Sky” Jackson impressed them with fun, their relaxed attitude, and basketball skills.
A strong signal for diversity, equality, and respect
According to Stiftung RTL, the Harlem Globetrotters and the Rollikids are a good match, because they stand for more than basketball tricks. The Harlem Globetrotters combine sport, show, and entertainment and send a strong signal for diversity, equality, and respect. The team’s century-long history is a testament to overcoming barriers and bringing people together through sports – goals they share with the Rollikids. For them, it’s also all about participation, physical activity, self-confidence, and community.
For many years, the Harlem Globetrotters have been committed to and involved in schools and social institutions around the world, promoting education, integration, team spirit, and fairness.
