Biography

Rafael Addison was born and raised in Jersey City, attending the local public school #15 and Snyder High School where he became a star student athlete. During high school his talents were developed and he was rated the best basketball player in Hudson County. He was one of twelve student athletes in the country selected to play in the prestigious McDonalds Capital Classic in Washington, DC. As a Jersey City student, Rafael visited the White House and met President Ronald Reagan.

Rafael attended Syracuse University where he majored in Communications. At Syracuse University, he began to show a strong sense of commitment to community service, which he attributes to his mother. Rafael visited terminally-ill children on every Valentines Day and Christmas Day. He also worked as a volunteer for the Special Olympics as well as for many other community projects. Rafael was voted most valuable player for three consecutive years by the Catholic Youth Organization for his contributions to children and community. He has also received the Victor Hanson Medal of Excellence, one of Syracuse University most distinguished awards.

During the many years as a professional basketball player, Rafael made personal and charitable contributions to many organizations and programs such as Fannie Mae Foundation, where he helped refurbish homes for low-income families, and A+ Challenge for kids. Every year at Christmas time, he brought over one hundred pairs of sneakers to donate to the homeless in Jersey City.

Rafael Addison has played professional basketball and traveled the world, yet has chosen to become a teacher in Jersey City to give back to his community, that which was given to him many years ago. He now volunteers his time, services and financial assets to a variety of programs. Now a basketball coach at Snyder High School, he not only teaches the fundamentals of the game but the fundamentals of being a good citizen. As a mentor, he provides a mirror image in which the students can relate. Rafael creates an environment that is highly positive to children which builds self-esteem and confidence. He has become a counselor, parent, friend and role model to his students to insure productive learning. Rafael understands and demonstrates that being an educator is an essential and rewarding aspect of life and one must embrace the knowledge that it is always a lifelong leadership role.