West Palm Beach 12th Grade Boy’s Team & The Power of Supporting the overlooked.
The Critical Moment: Why This Team Matters
At a time when young athletes are stepping into adulthood, the Holiday Hoops & Arts WPB 12th Grade Team Boy’s Team ensures they don’t have to do it alone. Founded with the support of board member and coach Steven Karnes and Coach James Lynch, this program provides more than just basketball—it offers mentorship, scholarships, and guidance to 18-year-olds who are often overlooked. In this interview, Steven Karnes shares why this program is so essential and how others can help.
Interview with Steven Karnes
Q: Steven, you’ve been a key supporter and founder of the WPB 12th Boy’s Grade Team. What inspired you to invest in this program?
Steven Karnes: It’s all about giving these young athletes a real shot. So often, when kids hit 18, the support just stops. But that’s the most critical time! They’re making life-changing decisions—college, careers, or even just figuring out their next step. I wanted to make sure they had resources, mentorship, and a team that didn’t just disappear after high school.
Q: What do you see in these players that makes this team special?
Steven Karnes: Man, these kids have heart! They show up, they put in the work, and they support each other. The joy on their faces when they hit a big shot or realize they can compete at the next level—that’s what it’s all about. But beyond basketball, we’re teaching life skills, discipline, and resilience.
Q: Why do you think the 18-year-old group is often overlooked?
Steven Karnes: I think people assume that once you turn 18, you’ve got it figured out, which is not true at all. This is when they need guidance the most—scholarships, opportunities, and someone to believe in them. If we don’t step up, they can fall through the cracks.
Q: How does this program bring fun and joy while maintaining that sense of urgency?
Steven Karnes: It’s a mix! We push them hard, but we make it fun. The energy in practice, the competition, the team bonding—it all creates an environment where they want to be. We celebrate wins, we laugh, we challenge them to be their best. And knowing they have real opportunities waiting for them after this? That’s the biggest joy of all.
Q: Mr. Steve, what would you say to someone considering donating or getting involved?
Steven Karnes: Do it! You’ll be changing lives. A little support can mean a scholarship, a chance to play at the next level, or even just the confidence to take the next step in life. These young men are full of potential. They just need someone to believe in them.
Q: Any final words to the players?
Steven Karnes: Keep pushing. Keep believing. And know that we’re here for you, not just today, but for the long run.
More Than Basketball, A Lasting Impact
The WPB 12th Grade Team is about more than just basketball. It’s about creating opportunities, fostering joy, and ensuring that no young person is left behind. These players are at a critical moment in their lives, and with the right support, their potential is limitless. If you want to be part of something truly transformative, consider supporting today. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
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