On the rebound

l Szolack ’73 made a career out of losing—to the Harlem Globetrotters. A member of the Washington Generals, the Globetrotter’s on-court scapegoats, Szolack played all over the United States and Europe bringing laughter and joy to millions of fans. “Playing for the Generals was a million dollar experience,” said Szolack, “only without the million dollars.”

But when the cheering stopped and some major set backs occurred, Szolack turned to drugs and alcohol. For seven years he struggled with the addiction and its effects. Then, when he needed the help of a friend the most—he got it—in the form of a simple hug. “She gave me a hug and helped me get back on my feet,” said Szolack.

Today, he is the substance abuse awareness director at Hammonton High School. He uses his experiences to help teens understand the horrors of drug and alcohol addiction.
Szolack also developed Do Hugs, Not Drugs, a motivational speech he’s been performing for 12 years for high school students across the country. “I get the kids to open up to me,” said Szolack. “It’s not just about drugs anymore, but other issues too.”

While Szolack’s basketball career kept him from scoring much on court, he’s now making big wins helping teens slam dunk drugs and alcohol.

from spring ’98