Multicultural comp a slam dunk

THE SWISH Intercultural Basketball Tournament will celebrate the diverse young people of regional Victoria next month.

To be held at the Ballarat Sports and Events Centre on Friday, 2 July, from 1pm to 4pm, players will be split into teams with people of a similar age and skill level for a round-robin competition.

The Y Ballarat’s youth engagement officer Suze Larmer said young people between 12 and 25 are invited to enter and be part of the youth-led afternoon, which will have beginner, intermediate and advanced streams.

“It’s an active outlet for kids during the school holidays, and something positive for them to engage with,” she said.

“We want to offer a fun and inclusive space where young people of culturally diverse backgrounds are front and centre.

“We’re celebrating how diverse Australia is, and making sure the tournament is accessible and safe for people who may not normally be able to access an event like this.”

Snacks will be provided, skills clinics will be led by Ballarat Rush and Miners athletes, and SEDA College students will organise games, coach, and assist organisers with risk management in the lead up to the tournament.

“On the day, we’re going to employ some of Ballarat Basketball’s young referees to facilitate games, so it will all be young person-led,” Ms Larmer said.

“We’ll have a table set up with information and sports registration options, so players can follow up opportunities if they are interested and want to engage further.”

Locally, the tournament is a collaboration between groups including the Centre for Multicultural Youth, The Y Ballarat, Ballarat Youth Services, Sports Central, the City of Ballarat Recreation Services team, and the Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council.

Some Wimmera-based community organisations are also part of its development.

Approximately 35 spaces are available for local young people to participate in the free event. Visit bit.ly/2RaDsBo to sign up as an individual or as a team, or contact 0448 608 961 for more information.