Pastor Francisco Ramos Basketball League: Brotherhood On and Off the Court

When the whistle blows and the ball hits the hardwood floor, the Pastor Francisco Ramos Basketball League is not just beginning a game, they are carrying out a ministry and a brotherhood where faith and fellowship go hand-in-hand with athletic excellence. 

With games hosted at South Lancaster Academy (SLA), the league began under the Massachusetts Adventist Youth and Young Adults (MAYYA) Federation of the Southern New England Conference, led by Benjamin Vazquez and Evelyn Santana.  Later Francisco Ramos, Jr., and Angel Santana joined the leadership team.  In searching for a name that captured the league’s spirit, the founders chose to honor the late Francisco Ramos—a devoted Southern New England Conference pastor, youth advocate, and church administrator.

Over time, it has developed into a faith-centered men’s basketball league, drawing players from both Adventist and non-Adventist backgrounds. After a pause during the Covid pandemic, passionate players called for its return.  In 2025, the league boasted eight teams, including the founding teams, Esmirna (from the Northeastern Conference church in Worcester) and Village (from the Village church in South Lancaster).

Some non-Adventist players have even visited the Village SDA church, Crosswalk New England SDA church, and Redemption Community SDA church, reflecting the spiritual bridge this league has built beyond the court.

With a deep commitment to supporting young people, the league has raffled off a free week of summer camp at Camp Winnekeag. They have worked with Albert Ortiz, co-founder of Above the Rim, an athletic training facility for young athletes, and with the league’s influence, one of these athletes has enrolled at SLA. 

Today the league operates as a self-supporting ministry, with team fees covering expenses such as referees.  The Southern New England Conference youth department donates trophies occasionally, and several conference employees and pastors provide invaluable support.

Joe Howel, player #00 from the Redemption Community SDA church team, shares:

“Of all the options I may have on a Saturday night, I find myself at South Lancaster Academy, playing in one of my favorite basketball leagues . . . for the last nine years.  There is a family feeling in the gym from the first prayer to the last whistle. Respect is held in a high standard set from the beginning. The league runs smoothly, and everyone is on a first name basis. Handshakes, hugs and laughter are all around. Eventually I will have to hang up the sneakers and stop playing rec basketball. When that time comes, I will still play in the Pastor Ramos league.”     

Joe’s words echo the league’s unwavering commitment to creating a faith-building family environment, both on and off the court—a testament to its lasting impact.

The 2026 season starts in March! For more information, please contact santanaevy5@gmail.com.