Founded in 1969 by the legendary Coach Gus Alfieri, the All American Basketball Camp has been a cornerstone of Long Island summers for over five decades.

Coach Gus, a former standout player at St. John’s University and a key member of its 1959 NIT Championship team, dedicated his life to teaching the fundamentals of basketball and the invaluable life lessons that come with it. Under his guidance, the camp became a beloved tradition, teaching not only jump shots and defensive stances but also the importance of attitude, effort, and personal growth. His famous Friday Attitude Lectures left an indelible mark on generations of campers, who left the court with more than just improved skills—they left with life lessons.

Coach Gus’s impact extended far beyond the camp. As a coach, he led St. Anthony’s High School to two NY State Championships, four NSCHSAA titles, and over 300 victories. A New York basketball legend, Gus Alfieri was inducted into the St. John’s University Hall of Fame, the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame, and the St. Anthony’s High School Hall of Fame. His books, Lapchick and Heart of a Champion, have further solidified his legacy as a teacher, mentor, and storyteller. In honor of his contributions, the court at St. Anthony’s High School now bears his name, a testament to his lasting influence on the game and the players who love it.

After Coach Gus’s passing in January 2024, the camp was renamed the Gus Alfieri All American Basketball Camp to honor his incredible legacy. Today, the camp continues to embody the values he held dear: effort, growth, and the joy of the game. His son, Ron Alfieri, who has been part of the camp for all 55 years—as a camper, coach, and co-director—carries forward his father’s vision. With Ron’s extensive experience as a player and coach, the camp remains a place where kids can grow their skills, build confidence, and fall in love with basketball in a supportive and inclusive environment. And to continue his legacy, we are proud to announce the Gus Alfieri Foundation, coming soon.

The All American Basketball Camp isn’t just about winning games; it’s about creating personal victories. Every summer, when kids lace up their sneakers and step onto the court, they carry forward the tradition of playing hard, learning life lessons, and having fun—just as Coach Gus envisioned over 50 years ago.