Club keen for more members

COORDINATORS behind Special Olympics Ballarat are inviting those with an intellectual disability to try their hand on the basketball court this weekend.

The group are holding their first ever basketball come and try session on Sunday, and Special Olympics Ballarat basketball coordinator Nicole Strickland said it’s about involving newcomers in an encouraging environment.

“It’s a great atmosphere and it’s great for socialising,” she said. “I’ve got some kids that just come to training for the social aspect and don’t even play any games.

“Whether they want to actually play, or they’re there for the social side, that’s fine. We cater for everybody.”

The session will entail basic drills and ball-handling, followed by a friendly game, and information on what the club is about.

Special Olympics Ballarat currently has 15 basketball members and about the same amount for its swimming division.

Ms Strickland said the team’s drive for more members is being bolstered by the recent establishment of a dedicated basketball committee.

“We’ve actually got support now whereas before I was having to do everything myself,” she said.

“We want to really promote and really increase the numbers and make what we do known.

“It’s important because we don’t have full teams at the moment. We’d love to have full teams when we go to tournaments and not have to combine with others who are short as well.”

The come and try event will run from 10.30am to 12pm at Phoenix College, where the team meets every Sunday.

For enquiries, contact Ms Strickland via [email protected].