05.13.23
The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation and Icy Hot are opening their largest "Comebaq Court" to date at the Shaquille O'Neal Boys & Girls Club of Henry County, as part of their combined efforts to inspire the next generation of athletes.
The new "Comebaq Court" will provide club members a safe, engaging space to play and hone their skills. The new facility will feature a new multipurpose basketball court, turf field and tennis/pickleball court, giving the youth a new training ground to enjoy as they work toward their goals.
‘A Full Circle Moment Bigger Than Sports’
"This is a special day, because I know firsthand how important the Boys & Girls Club is to our youth and our community,” said O’Neal. “This club is especially near to my heart and home, making this a full circle moment for me that's bigger than sports. I'm excited to celebrate the opening of this brand new sports complex for our kids to enjoy as we ensure the next generation has access to safe places like these to chase their dreams."
The opening of the Atlanta-area "Comebaq Court" comes as O'Neal and Icy Hot celebrate 20 years of partnership. In that time, they've refurbished courts in Las Vegas, Newark and Miami to give thousands of local kids in need a welcoming place to play.
"This is an exciting moment for Icy Hot and our continued work with The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation to support young athletes," said Jessica Scholl, portfolio lead for pain & sleep at Sanofi. "We are dedicated to ensuring the next generation of athletes remain game ready by supporting them where and when they play."
The official court reveal and dedication was held on May 11. O’Neal was joined in attendance by McDonough Mayor Sandra Vincent, as well as representatives from The Shaquille O'Neal Foundation, Icy Hot and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA).
"With 25 clubs across 10 counties, our goal at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta is to create inclusive and engaging environments for every young person who enters one of our Clubs," said BGCMA president & CEO David Jernigan. "The 'Comebaq Court' at our Shaquille O'Neal Boys & Girls Club of Henry County is more than just a beautiful outdoor sporting ground, but it is also an environment that reinforces our healthy lifestyle initiatives. We are elated for this partnership and for the opportunity to provide our Club members with an inviting place to enjoy fresh air and stay active."