Thanks to CEA’s member benefits partnership with the Connecticut Sun, CEA members were treated to games featuring four of the most exciting teams in women’s college basketball.
A showcase of these talented teams was part of the Invesco QQQ Basketball Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase in December at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville. The high-powered doubleheader featured games between UConn and Florida State, which UConn won 85-77, and Iowa State vs. Villanova, with Iowa coming out ahead 74-62.
CEA members pose with DiJonai Carrington and Beth Regan (at left) and Jennifer Rizzotti (at right).
Before the games, members had a chance to socialize during a brunch buffet and enjoyed a presentation featuring Connecticut Sun President and former UConn Women’s Basketball star Jennifer Rizzotti, Mohegan Tribal Council of Elders Vice Chairwoman Beth Regan, and Connecticut Sun player DiJonai Carrington.
“I learned so much about the passion, hard work, strong collaboration, and vision that Beth, Jennifer, and DiJonai have for the Connecticut Sun organization,” says Newington Spanish teacher Elsa Batista. “My 13-year-old son Niko had an opportunity to talk to DiJonai about what she had to sacrifice in order to reach her long-term goals. I shared her message with my eighth graders. I left inspired and wanting to learn more.”
Newington teacher Elsa Batista and her son Nico had a chance to talk with CT Sun player DiJonai Carrington.
Bloomfield fifth grade teacher Gail Jorden says she found the presentation very informative and that it enhanced her love for the Connecticut Sun. She says she particularly enjoyed DiJonai Carrington’s inspirational words to motivate upcoming athletes. “Never sacrifice what you want most for what you want in the moment.”
“It was a fantastic opportunity to learn about a team and league that not only provides exciting entertainment, but also has a strong focus on supporting its community and players both on and off the court,” says Bolton Latin teacher Paul Giblin.
The Connecticut Sun has been an important supporter of Connecticut teachers and an instrumental CEA Member Benefits partner. The team provides discounted tickets to members for teacher appreciation games, student field trips to games, support for CEA’s Read Across Connecticut events, and hosts basketball clinics for schools.
Currently the Connecticut Sun is offering a monthly raffle for elementary school teachers to win a basketball clinic for their students. Enter for a chance to bring a clinic to your school.
Watch video from a basketball clinic at a Bridgeport school.
