Mt. Zion is proud to announce the start of our newest ministry, the Therapeutic Sports Ministry (TSM).  TSM is for all persons regardless of race and physical limitations and designed to assist them in developing their full spiritual, educational, emotional, physical and general well-being.  The first program to be introduced is wheelchair basketball, and will focus on children and youth. 

TSM's outreach within the city and county will be promoted via Mt. Zion Christian Academy, local hospitals, Paralympics Sports Tampa Bay and various City of St. Petersburg Recreation Department initiatives.    Robert (Robbie) Gordon, Jr., a member of Mt. Zion's youth ministry will be our primary spokesperson.  Robbie is a student at Gibbs High School who has excelled in academics and wheelchair basketball.   He is currently set to try out for the USA Paralympics Team.

The City of St. Petersburg has pledged to support TSM with the use of wheelchairs, program advisory, semi-annual therapeutic sports clinics, exhibitions and program promotions. In addition, the City has identified former sponsors of the therapeutic basketball program.  Coach Chontell Cecil, well-known in the athletic community, will bring basketball experience to the program; and coupled with knowledgeable city employees with expertise in managing and operating therapeutic sports programs, TSM is sure to be a huge success. Activities will take place both on indoor and outdoor courts, including the indoor courts at Mt. Zion. 

Through Mt. Zion's vision, we hope to inspire new horizons for all ages whose daily lives require the use of wheelchairs. 

For additional information, please contact Coach Chontell Cecil, TSM Coordinator at sportstrainer22@verizon.net or Rev. Charles Ray, (727) 656-0303.