Channing Frye conducted the first ever Channing Frye Leadership Academy in Portland June 16-18 for 60 boys and girls. Although held at a gymnasium, Channing’s academy focused on helping the youth develop skills that they can apply off the court. “The kids learn how to take care of themselves,” said Channing. “They learn how to be tough. Some of these kids are tired, but they stick with it because they love it. Those types of lessons can’t be learned through a book.”

Channing, who was joined by teammate Steve Blake, ran the kids through drills, contests and games. “These kids are tired, but they love it,” said Channing. “Look at them. It is about having fun and just playing.”

Channing has been busy this summer. The week before his Portland academy, he hosted 120 kids to his second leadership academy in Phoenix. At the end of June, the Channing Frye Foundatoin will host the inaugural C. Frye Celebrity Golf Tournament with Honorary Chair Lute Olson. Proceeds from the golf tournament will go the foundation and the MS Society Chapters of New York City, Arizona and Oregon.

Go to Channing’s Web site for more information about him and his foundation: http://www.channingfrye.com/index.html

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