Hoops galore is the catch cry at the Ice House on Saturday mornings of this school term.
Basketball Mount Gambier, supported by McDonalds, 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 after a break of many years in Term 4 of last year, reinstated by club chairperson Matt Ray and was 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.
Ray said 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, participating in physical activities and having fun with friends, are being achieved in bucket loads,” Ray said.
“The children arrive wearing grins of anticipation and leave with even wider grins on their faces reflecting their positive experiences.”
Ray said the Pioneers Basketball Club was also supporting the 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,” he said.
“Members of the Pioneers’ women’s squad plan to visit in the next weeks as well.”
Ray said other bonuses of the program included the steady improvement of the players’ fundamental ball skills, developing an awareness of playing as a team and resultant gains in self-confidence.
North Gambier Primary School R-6 program coordinator Melissa Russell commended Basketball Mount Gambier on the initiative, claiming 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,” Russell said.
“Their regular attendance, along with the enthusiasm and energy displayed in their games, reflect how much they are enjoying the experience.”
It is expected that some of the children, as a result of participating in School Hoops, will be inspired to play in the coming winter season of the popular Basketball Mount Gambier junior competitions.
Ray said it was planned to conduct an expanded School Hoops Program in Term 4 in 2023.
