Learning the power of basketball

THE two sessions of the girls only basketball clinic held on Wednesday, April 16, exceeded expectations in terms of participating numbers, the levels of having fun with friends and learning the fundamental skills and team strategies of basketball.

The clinic, made possible through the sponsorship of the Statewide Power of Her Infrastructure and Participation Program and the City of Mount Gambier Junior Sports Assistance Fund, featured a total of 64 participants, 39 in the morning session and 25 in the afternoon.

OneFortyOne Mount Gambier Pioneers women’s head coach Matt Sutton led the program, consisting of fun activities, learning fundamental basketball skills and a series of mini-games.

His ability to effectively engage participants of a diverse range of experience, age, and knowledge, along with the efforts several Pioneers’ players, had a significant positive impact on the success of the day.

Junior basketballers from Mount Gambier, Millicent, Portland, and Melbourne took part.

Pioneers’ players assisting with coaching during the day included Austin Shelley, Titus Robinson, Hayliegh Reinoehl, Chloe Hildebrand and Macca Burke.

Each participant received a basketball with the idea of encouraging them to practise at home.

They will also receive a training top in recognition of their commitment to this clinic.

A second free Girls Only Clinic is planned for July 9.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGIA PAIGE PHOTOGRAPHY