Maspeth High School students joined forces to give back to their community on Saturday, Nov. 2, by cleaning up Grand Avenue.
The school’s basketball program, led by Boys Varsity Coach Kresimir Mustac, dedicated over two hours to pick up litter and beautify the busy thoroughfare in collaboration with the Maspeth Lions Club and Maspeth Town Hall. The turnout saw over 50 volunteers from across the community participating in the event.
Armed with litter-pickers and trash bags, each student demonstrated the school’s commitment to community service. Coach Mustac shared that the event was initially planned for June, shortly after he assumed his coaching role, but circumstances led to the cleanup taking place in the fall.
To bring this initiative to life, Mustac collaborated with Assembly Member Steven Raga, who represents the district, fostering a partnership focused on community engagement. “I first got the idea from the Commissioner at Middle Village Roll Hockey. He’s been a big supporter of mine and the team since I took over,” said Mustac.
As one of the nearest public high schools in the area, Maspeth High School is closely tied to the local community and its businesses. “If people can come together and do good for one another throughout the community, I think it’s a positive,” Mustac said, emphasizing the importance of building morale and unity in the neighborhood.
Looking ahead, Mustac and the basketball team plan to continue their outreach efforts with additional community activities and fundraisers in the works. “We’re just trying to get our name out there and trying to get as many fans in the seats as possible,” he said. “We’re looking forward to a good season.”
Maspeth High School, located at 54-40 74th St., is known for its robust academic and athletic programs, serving students from the surrounding community and instilling values of hard work and civic responsibility. To learn more about Maspeth HS’s basketball program, follow @maspethhoops on Instagram.