December 2003 marked the 10th anniversary of Sports Legends, where the Newark Y brings retired athletes to local schools to send a positive message to kids about staying in school and out of gangs.

In the 2004 program, 40 athletes visited 35 schools and hospitals in Newark and surrounding towns on November 29 and 30, speaking to hundreds of kids. On Tuesday evening, November 30, the Y hosted its annual Sports Legends Gala, a black-tie fundraiser that helps make Sports Legends possible. The YMCA also awarded college scholarships to 11 student-athletes from area high schools. Visit sportslegends.newarkymca.org for more information.

Among the returning athletes are Carl Eller, an All-Pro defensive end with the Minnesota Vikings, who was recently inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. Carl joined two other Hall of Famers: Bobby Bell of the Kansa City Chiefs and Larry Little of the Miami Dolphins. Other Legends included NBA Hall of Famer Connie Hakins, Joetta Clark-Diggs, a member of four U.S. Olympic teams, Ken Daneyko of the New Jersey Devils, and Legendary Bodybuilder Bill Grant.

Shown in Photo from left to right: John Carlos, a U.S. Olympic champion, Milton Harrison, Newark YMCA President/CEO, Carl Eller, and Bill Grant.