Icy Hot and Shaquille O'Neal Foundation Open Sixth Comebaq Court in Texas
On July 14, 2025, Icy Hot, a prominent name in pain relief products, partnered with The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation to unveil their sixth Comebaq Court at Gloria Williams Park, located in Rockwall, Texas. This initiative aims to provide a refurbished and welcoming space for young athletes, particularly members of the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Texas, thereby promoting both fitness and community engagement in underserved areas. The event was highlighted by the presence of Shaquille O'Neal and WNBA star Arike Ogunbowale, who also participated in a spirited 5v5 basketball game during the opening ceremony.
The Comebaq Court at Gloria Williams Park is a tribute to Gloria Williams, a local hero known for her inspiring journey from a maid to a community leader. Her legacy of resilience and commitment to education is a significant aspect of this location, enhancing its importance as a community hub. The park recently underwent major renovations, receiving upgrades that include new play equipment, ADA-compliant pathways, and various facilities designed to encourage play and interaction among children.
From a practical standpoint, the renovations to the court included state-of-the-art features, such as a completely new playing surface, LED lighting, fresh fencing, and upgraded basketball hoops, ensuring that the young athletes have access to first-rate facilities. This aligns with Icy Hot's broader mission, which focuses on more than just relieving pain; it encompasses fostering environments where young dreams can flourish.
Shaquille O'Neal, sharing his personal connection to the Boys & Girls Club, emphasized the intrinsic value of such initiatives. He noted, "Having a safe space to play, grow, and dream is paramount for our youth. This court is more than just a place for basketball; it serves as a community anchor, shaping opportunities for young players."
Arike Ogunbowale added to this sentiment, expressing her pride in supporting the local community she has called home for several years. She believes that the facility will empower youth, providing them a place to engage in healthy activities and foster their aspirations.
This collaboration is part of Icy Hot's ongoing partnership with The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation, which has previously led to the establishment of similar courts in major cities, including Las Vegas, Newark, Miami, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. Each Comebaq Court represents a commitment to uplift underserved areas, providing safe spaces for children to connect and develop their athletic skills.
Vincent Balagat, Senior Brand Director of Icy Hot, reiterated the company's commitment to community well-being, stating, "We are dedicated to creating safe, supportive spaces where youth can not only discover and develop their athletic talents but also learn essential life skills. The Comebaq Court initiative reflects our belief in the power of sports to unite and inspire."
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Texas expressed their gratitude for the addition of the Comebaq Court, recognizing it as a vital resource for local youth and a testament to community partnership. The Chief Executive Officer, Jenny Krueger, highlighted the importance of accessible spaces for youth to grow and engage in meaningful activities, both on and off the court.
In conjunction with community leaders, O'Neal and Ogunbowale’s remarks garnered a heartfelt response from attendees, underscoring the spirit of collaboration among organizations committed to serving the next generation. Mayor Pro Tem Mark Moeller of Rockwall welcomed the court's establishment, expressing optimism for the healthy engagement it promises for local youth.
As Icy Hot and The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation look to the future, more Comebaq Courts are planned across various regions, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering healthy communities. This initiative not only symbolizes the unyielding dedication to youth development by both the foundation and Icy Hot but also highlights a shared vision of impacting lives beyond the sphere of sports.
The Comebaq Court at Gloria Williams Park is a tribute to Gloria Williams, a local hero known for her inspiring journey from a maid to a community leader. Her legacy of resilience and commitment to education is a significant aspect of this location, enhancing its importance as a community hub. The park recently underwent major renovations, receiving upgrades that include new play equipment, ADA-compliant pathways, and various facilities designed to encourage play and interaction among children.
From a practical standpoint, the renovations to the court included state-of-the-art features, such as a completely new playing surface, LED lighting, fresh fencing, and upgraded basketball hoops, ensuring that the young athletes have access to first-rate facilities. This aligns with Icy Hot's broader mission, which focuses on more than just relieving pain; it encompasses fostering environments where young dreams can flourish.
Shaquille O'Neal, sharing his personal connection to the Boys & Girls Club, emphasized the intrinsic value of such initiatives. He noted, "Having a safe space to play, grow, and dream is paramount for our youth. This court is more than just a place for basketball; it serves as a community anchor, shaping opportunities for young players."
Arike Ogunbowale added to this sentiment, expressing her pride in supporting the local community she has called home for several years. She believes that the facility will empower youth, providing them a place to engage in healthy activities and foster their aspirations.
This collaboration is part of Icy Hot's ongoing partnership with The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation, which has previously led to the establishment of similar courts in major cities, including Las Vegas, Newark, Miami, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. Each Comebaq Court represents a commitment to uplift underserved areas, providing safe spaces for children to connect and develop their athletic skills.
Vincent Balagat, Senior Brand Director of Icy Hot, reiterated the company's commitment to community well-being, stating, "We are dedicated to creating safe, supportive spaces where youth can not only discover and develop their athletic talents but also learn essential life skills. The Comebaq Court initiative reflects our belief in the power of sports to unite and inspire."
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Texas expressed their gratitude for the addition of the Comebaq Court, recognizing it as a vital resource for local youth and a testament to community partnership. The Chief Executive Officer, Jenny Krueger, highlighted the importance of accessible spaces for youth to grow and engage in meaningful activities, both on and off the court.
In conjunction with community leaders, O'Neal and Ogunbowale’s remarks garnered a heartfelt response from attendees, underscoring the spirit of collaboration among organizations committed to serving the next generation. Mayor Pro Tem Mark Moeller of Rockwall welcomed the court's establishment, expressing optimism for the healthy engagement it promises for local youth.
As Icy Hot and The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation look to the future, more Comebaq Courts are planned across various regions, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering healthy communities. This initiative not only symbolizes the unyielding dedication to youth development by both the foundation and Icy Hot but also highlights a shared vision of impacting lives beyond the sphere of sports.
Topics Sports）
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