Triumphant return

School basketball plays a role in junior development

Hoops Galore, that’s the catch cry at the Ice House on Saturday morningsthis school term. Basketball Mount Gambier is currently running a junior program for two primary school year level divisions, Years 5/6 and 3/4 involving boys and girls teams.

School basketball returned to the Ice House in Term 4 of last year after a break of many years, reinstated by chairperson Matt Ray and supported by several local schools.

The excitement and energy, along with the positive atmosphere generated from the first day spelt out the instant popularity of the program.

Such was the success and appeal of this pilot program; it is continuing this term and has already produced an increase in numbers and interest.

Around 120 children participate in 19 games each Saturday morning.

The main aims of this program centre on participating in physical activities and having fun with friends are being achieved in ‘bucket loads’.

The children arrive wearing grins of anticipation and leave with even wider grins on their faces reflecting their positive experiences. The Pioneers Basketball Club is supporting this program.

One of the highlights of a recent round was the visit of several members of the men’s squad, who spent time with the players being actively involved as coaches, umpires and even players.

Members of the Pioneers’ women’s squad plan to visit in the coming weeks as well.

Other bonuses of the program include the steady improvement of the players’ fundamental ball skills, developing an awareness of playing as a team and resultant gains in self confidence.

Melissa Russell, program coordinator from North Gambier R to 6 School commended Basketball Mount Gambier on this initiative claiming that the modest match fees played a big part in so many North students participating and made special mention of the level of help from volunteers from within the school community.

“The unexpected and pleasing response from our students, the first experience in basketball for many of them, was most encouraging for the volunteer team managers,” Melissa said.

“Their regular attendance, along with the enthusiasm and energy displayed in their games reflect how much they are enjoying the experience.”

The 7-week program is about to draw to a close and is expected to attract some children, as a result of participating in School Hoops, to playing in the coming winter season of the popular Basketball Mount Gambier junior competitions.

It is planned to conduct an expanded School Hoops Program in Term 4 this year.

The program has been sponsored by McDonald’s Mount Gambier.