The Inspiring Story of Rayan's Custom Basketball Court and Hope

A Dream Come True: Rayan's Custom Basketball Court

In a heartwarming collaboration, The LandTek Group and The Marty Lyons Foundation have come together to grant a life-altering wish for Rayan, a 16-year-old resident of Katy, Texas. This initiative highlights the power of community support and the love for sports. With generous assistance from Hellas, another esteemed member of the TenCate family, the project launched a functional and personal arena in Rayan's backyard where he can embrace his passion for basketball once again.

Rayan, who has faced numerous health challenges, was born with serious congenital defects resulting in a complicated medical history. After undergoing open-heart surgery in 2021, he unfortunately suffered severe complications leading to cardiac arrest. The aftermath left him grappling with significant health constraints, including a dilated aortic arch, which meant he could no longer participate in team sports - a heartbreaking reality for a young athlete devoted to basketball and football. Yet, in the face of adversity, his spirits remained high, dreaming of a safe space to shoot hoops with friends and family.

The construction of his custom basketball court goes far beyond just a physical endeavor; it signifies resilience and hope. His mother, Jennifer Rabout, expressed the profound impact this project has had on their lives, saying, "Basketball was always his passion. Now, he can play safely at home with his siblings and friends. This court reminds him every day that he can still achieve great things."

The court features more than just a hoop; it incorporates ball-stop netting sourced from Sportsfield Specialties and a high-quality basketball hoop provided by My Backyard Sports, a proud women-owned business based in Houston. These elements contribute to creating a safe and enjoyable sporting environment where Rayan can reclaim his love for the game.

Marty Lyons, the founder of The Marty Lyons Foundation and a New York Jets legend, shared his thoughts on this unique wish. He stated, "This was a unique wish, and we knew it would take a strong partner to make it happen. Our mission is to grant wishes today for a better tomorrow, and thanks to The LandTek Group and Hellas, Rayan now has a safe space to play, dream, and defy the limits his illness has tried to impose."

The spirit of community provided strength to these partnerships and underscored the importance of sport in healing. "Sports have the power to inspire and heal," mentioned John Sulinski, COO of The LandTek Group. They saw the opportunity to create something special for Rayan, instilling hope not just for him but for countless children who face similar challenges every day.

Hellas, a company focused on providing premier sports construction services, offered its local expertise to ensure Rayan’s court met the highest standards, further enhancing the court's quality and safety. Jose Sosa, the Senior Vice President of Hellas, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "It's been great working with Hellas and LandTek as a team. Let's make Rayan proud of his court and support him in his recovery."

With a history dating back to 1982, The Marty Lyons Foundation has granted over 8,700 wishes to children battling life-threatening illnesses across 14 states. They are particularly unique in offering a second wish under dire medical circumstances ensuring families and children receive the support they genuinely need in tough times.

The LandTek Group, now operating in 16 states with numerous accolades under their belt, continues to prioritize building more than just sports facilities. They focus on cultivating hope and giving back to communities. Their commitment to overseeing projects that positively change lives demonstrates their role not merely as constructors but as vital community partners.

The touching story of Rayan's dream basketball court stands as a reminder of the importance of connection and support in the face of adversity. It reinforces the vital role sports play in bringing people together, creating joy, and instilling hope, ultimately transforming lives.

For more information about The LandTek Group, visit LandTek Group Website. To learn about The Marty Lyons Foundation and its mission, check out their official site.