RAP History

Western New York's need for a quality AAU program became evident in the late 90's when players, who were finishing their high school seasons, showed the desire to continue playing.  As a result, Gene Cairo, a 25 year veteran high school coach saw this need and formed Rochester Area Players (RAP).

Today, RAP is a sanctioned AAU program made up of teams spanning 7 age levels. In 2005, RAP became the largest program in New York State.  In 2007, RAP consisted of over 30 travel teams with several high school varsity coaches participating. RAP teams during the 2007 season collectively won more than 70 titles. RAP’s 15U Select Team participated in several National Events. They won the Adidas Hoop Challenge in Cleveland and also had very good showings at GymRats, King James, and The Rumble in the Bronx. For the 3rd time a RAP team have been the only western New York teams to be invited to the "Rumble in the Bronx", which is considered one of the top tournaments in the nation.

The 2005 National AAU Convention honored Gene Cairo, RAP founder, with the "Youth Basketball Volunteer of the Year" award.

RAP helps showcase the Greater Rochester area's finest players.  A number of players who graduated from the program continue their playing at Division I, II, and III college levels.  RAP hosts two annual tournaments during the spring season.  Each year it has continued to grow and now draws over 220 teams from various states including New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Ohio.  Teams from Canada also regularly participate.

The program plans to build on the successes of previous years.  As RAP continues to draw players from the Greater Rochester area, teams will compete at the highest levels, while solidifying its reputation as one of the better AAU programs in the country.