About 300 Lansing children are expected to shoot hoops in January, and Lansing police officials are looking for an MSU student to be in charge.

Lansing police Capt. Ray Hall hopes to expand the city's Police Athletic League, or PAL, by hiring a part-time executive director, who likely will be an MSU student.

"We are hoping to attract an MSU student who will bring enthusiasm to the program and will attract other students to assist in volunteering and giving back to the community," Hall said. The director will work 20-hours per week while coordinating and directing sporting events. The position pays $10 an hour.

With the help of police and volunteers, the 10-year-old program was designed to help keep kids out of trouble, Hall said.

"We are looking to expand the program to attract more young kids in the area," Hall said. The kids range in ages 8 to 14.

From January to March, 300 children will form about 15 basketball teams that compete at the Lansing police north and south precincts and at area churches.

Hall says he would like to incorporate softball and volleyball teams during the summer and fall months.

"It's a significant responsibility," Hall said. "We want to teach them about team work, cooperation and all the other positive things that come with playing sports."

Connie Doyle, a Lansing resident and program volunteer for five years, said an MSU student would "be a good role model" for the kids. "I would like to see the kids go to college and set goals," she said.

Résumés can be sent to Lansing police Capt. Ray Hall at 120 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48910.