For more than twenty years, Ronnie Williams has protected the Mount Vernon, New York, community as a town police sergeant. In addition to his work in law enforcement, Ronnie has gone above and beyond by coaching youth basketball players through the Mount Vernon Police Department (MVPD) and the Mount Vernon Police Athletic League (PAL), creating fun, safe experiences that have allowed him to see the players’ joy and camaraderie grow.
Ronnie is committed to elevating the PAL program as a safe and reliable outlet for youth from underrepresented, low income, or more challenging backgrounds. He hopes to expand the program into a comprehensive after school initiative where students are mentored by older peers and taught essential life skills beyond basketball. His goal is to support as many young people as possible, helping them grow into confident, responsible individuals while strengthening the connection between law enforcement and the community.
Each year, the Jr. Knicks Coach of the Year award presented by HSS celebrates coaches making a positive impact on and off the court in each of their respective communities. Those recognized are celebrated for their demonstrated qualities of commitment, dedication, integrity, character, mentorship and participation within community service initiatives.